Collection: 17 HMR AMMO

A QUICK "PRIMER" ON 17 HMR AMMO

The .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) was introduced in 2002 by Hornady as a high-velocity, rimfire cartridge derived from the .22 Magnum case necked down to accept a .17-caliber bullet. Designed for precision and flat trajectory, the 17 HMR quickly gained popularity among varmint hunters and target shooters for its ability to deliver consistent accuracy out to 200 yards or more. Standard 17 HMR ammo typically fires a 17-grain V-MAX or TNT hollow point bullet at speeds around 2,550 feet per second, offering explosive impact on small game while maintaining low recoil.

Compared to other rimfire cartridges like the .22 LR or .22 WMR, the 17 HMR offers superior ballistic performance, including flatter trajectories and higher energy at extended distances. It's ideal for shooting prairie dogs, ground squirrels, rabbits, and even coyotes under the right conditions. While not as powerful as some centerfire varmint rounds, its blend of affordability, velocity, and accuracy makes the 17 HMR an outstanding choice for precision-minded rimfire shooters. Popular manufacturers like CCI, Hornady, Winchester, and Federal produce a wide variety of loadings, from polymer-tipped hunting rounds to jacketed hollow points, making it easy to tailor your ammo choice to your specific shooting needs.

TOP CONSIDERATIONS WHEN BUYING 17 HMR AMMO

When selecting 17 HMR ammunition, your choice should reflect the type of shooting you plan to do. From pest control to precision practice, here's what to keep in mind:

Purpose of Use: Determine if you'll be hunting small game, eliminating varmints, or just plinking at the range. For varmint and pest control, polymer-tipped bullets like Hornady V-MAX or CCI TNT Green provide explosive terminal performance. For tighter groups on paper targets, look for consistent match-grade rounds.

Bullet Type & Weight: The standard bullet weight for 17 HMR is 17 grains, with options up to 20 grains for improved wind resistance and penetration. Polymer-tipped bullets expand rapidly on impact, while jacketed hollow points (JHP) offer deeper penetration. Choose based on whether you prioritize expansion or impact retention.

Brand Reliability: Stick to established brands known for performance and consistency. CCI, Hornady, and Federal dominate this space, offering clean-burning powder, dependable primers, and uniform bullet construction. CCI 17 HMR ammo, in particular, is widely praised for reliability in semi-automatics.

Rifle Compatibility: Ensure your firearm is chambered specifically for 17 HMR. Never attempt to fire it in a .22 WMR or .22 LR rifle, despite similar casing dimensions, they are not interchangeable and doing so is dangerous. Always confirm the caliber stamped on the barrel.

Environmental Conditions: If you're shooting in windy environments, consider heavier 20-grain bullets that offer better ballistic coefficients and improved resistance to drift. For cold-weather shooting, premium ammo with sealed primers and cases can provide better performance and reliability.

THE 17 HMR AMMO "ROUND UP"

The 17 HMR continues to impress rimfire shooters with its flat trajectory, blazing velocity, and outstanding accuracy at extended distances. Whether you're knocking down varmints on the back 40 or testing your marksmanship at the range, 17 HMR ammo delivers precision and excitement every shot. At Target Sports USA, we proudly carry a wide selection of 17 HMR ammunition, including popular bulk packs and trusted brands like CCI, Hornady, and Winchester. Explore our inventory today and elevate your rimfire experience with high-quality rounds tailored for performance and value.