17 HMR vs. 22 LR | Rimfire Showdown

Published on August 4, 2017
Duration: 6:36

This video provides an expert comparison of the .17 HMR and .22 LR rimfire cartridges, focusing on their terminal ballistics for varmint hunting. The host, demonstrating high authority and expertise, uses controlled tests with water jugs, cinder blocks, and grapefruit to illustrate the distinct performance characteristics of each caliber. The .17 HMR excels in rapid energy transfer and fragmentation, while the .22 LR offers greater penetration.

Quick Summary

The .17 HMR excels in varmint hunting due to its high velocity and rapid fragmentation, dumping energy effectively on impact. The .22 LR offers greater penetration through soft targets but less dramatic energy transfer. Neither caliber is ideal for penetrating hard barriers like cinder blocks.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Caliber Overview
  2. 01:11Water Jug Penetration Test
  3. 02:48Cinder Block Hard Target Test
  4. 03:57Grapefruit Varmint Simulation
  5. 05:43Conclusion and Final Assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between .17 HMR and .22 LR for varmint hunting?

.17 HMR excels at rapid energy transfer and fragmentation, causing explosive effects on small targets. .22 LR offers deeper penetration but less dramatic energy dump, making it versatile but potentially less effective for immediate incapacitation of varmints.

How does .17 HMR perform against soft targets compared to .22 LR?

.17 HMR ammunition, like the 17-grain Hornady V-MAX, fragments quickly upon impact, dumping its energy. .22 LR, with heavier bullets like 36-grain JHPs, penetrates deeper through soft materials like water jugs.

Are .17 HMR or .22 LR suitable for penetrating hard barriers?

.17 HMR and .22 LR are generally unsuitable for penetrating hard barriers like cinder blocks. While the .17 HMR creates a deeper crater, neither round fully penetrates, highlighting their limitations in such scenarios.

More Hunting & Outdoors Videos You Might Like

More from 4MR Ranch

View all →