Choosing between the venerable .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR) and the more modern .17 HMR can be a tough decision for shooters. Both are rimfire cartridges, relatively inexpensive to shoot, and offer excellent accuracy, but their strengths lie in different areas. This detailed comparison will help you understand the nuances of each cartridge and determine which best suits your needs.
Caliber & Ballistics: A Tale of Two Cartridges
The fundamental difference lies in caliber and resulting ballistics. The .22 LR fires a .22 caliber (5.6mm) bullet, while the .17 HMR fires a smaller .17 caliber (4.5mm) bullet. This seemingly minor difference translates to significant variations in performance:
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.22 LR: Known for its versatility, the .22 LR boasts a wide range of bullet weights and types, from subsonic rounds for quiet plinking to high-velocity rounds for small game hunting. Its larger bullet diameter delivers more stopping power at closer ranges. The lower velocity generally means less wind drift at shorter distances.
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.17 HMR: The .17 HMR packs a significantly higher velocity, resulting in a flatter trajectory and longer effective range. Its smaller, lighter bullet, however, means less stopping power compared to the .22 LR, especially on larger game. Increased velocity makes it more susceptible to wind drift at longer ranges.
Ballistic Comparison Table (Approximate Values – vary by ammunition manufacturer)
| Cartridge | Caliber | Velocity (fps) | Energy (ft-lbs) | Effective Range (yards) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| .22 LR (HV) | .22 | 1200-1300 | 150-200 | 75-100 |
| .22 LR (SV) | .22 | 800-1000 | 80-120 | 50-75 |
| .17 HMR | .17 | 2500-2600 | 200-250 | 150-200 |
Applications: Where Each Cartridge Shines
The choice between .22 LR and .17 HMR heavily depends on intended use:
.22 LR: The Versatile Champion
- Target Shooting: A ubiquitous choice for plinking and target practice due to its low cost and ease of handling.
- Small Game Hunting: Effective on small game like squirrels, rabbits, and birds at closer ranges. The larger bullet diameter provides better stopping power.
- Training: Ideal for firearm training due to its manageable recoil and low cost.
- Pest Control: Effective for controlling rodents and other small pests.
.17 HMR: The Long-Range Specialist
- Small Game Hunting: Excellent for longer-range shots at small game. Its higher velocity and flatter trajectory make it superior to the .22 LR at distance.
- Predator Calling: A popular choice for calling and shooting coyotes and other small predators.
- Varmints: Effective at controlling prairie dogs and other varmints.
Cost & Ammunition Availability
While both are relatively inexpensive compared to centerfire cartridges, the .22 LR generally enjoys wider availability and a lower cost per round. .17 HMR ammunition is typically more expensive and can be harder to find in certain areas.
Recoil & Handling
Both cartridges are known for their mild recoil, making them suitable for novice shooters. However, the .17 HMR, due to its higher velocity, may have slightly more felt recoil than a standard velocity .22 LR.
Conclusion: The Right Choice for You
The best cartridge for you depends on your shooting priorities. The .22 LR is a versatile, inexpensive, and widely available option ideal for target shooting, small game hunting at closer ranges, and training. The .17 HMR offers superior long-range performance and is a better choice for longer-range small game hunting and varmint control. Consider your specific needs and shooting style to make the most informed decision.
