17 HMR vs. 22 LR | Rimfire Showdown

Published on August 4, 2017
Duration: 6:36

This video compares the .17 HMR and .22 LR rimfire cartridges through various tests, including water jug penetration, cinder block impact, and simulated varmint targets (grapefruit). The .17 HMR excels at rapid energy transfer and varmint obliteration due to high velocity and fragmentation, while the .22 LR demonstrates superior penetration. The .17 HMR is recommended for varmint hunting where immediate energy dump is crucial, provided precise shot placement.

Quick Summary

The .17 HMR is superior for varmint hunting because it dumps all its energy into the target through rapid fragmentation, unlike the .22 LR which offers better penetration. Tests showed the .17 HMR obliterating grapefruit while the .22 LR penetrated further, and neither caliber penetrated cinder blocks effectively.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: .17 HMR vs .22 LR Rimfire Showdown
  2. 01:11Water Jug Penetration Test: .17 HMR vs .22 LR
  3. 02:48Cinder Block Hard Target Test: Rimfire Calibers
  4. 03:57Grapefruit Varmint Simulation: Terminal Performance
  5. 05:43Conclusion: Best Rimfire for Varmint Hunting?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference in performance between .17 HMR and .22 LR based on the tests?

The .17 HMR excels at rapid energy transfer and target destruction due to high velocity and fragmentation, making it ideal for varmints. The .22 LR offers better penetration through targets and barriers, making it more versatile for general use.

Which caliber is better for varmint hunting, .17 HMR or .22 LR?

The .17 HMR is generally considered superior for varmint hunting because it dumps all its energy into the target, causing immediate incapacitation. The .22 LR might penetrate too deeply without sufficient energy transfer for small game.

How did the .17 HMR and .22 LR perform against hard targets like cinder blocks?

Neither caliber successfully penetrated the cinder block. The .17 HMR created a deeper crater, while the .22 LR had a shallower impact, demonstrating the limitations of rimfire rounds against hard barriers.

What type of ammunition was used in the .17 HMR vs .22 LR comparison?

The .17 HMR used 17-grain Hornady V-MAX ammunition, known for rapid expansion. The .22 LR was tested with 36-grain jacketed hollow point ammunition, which showed greater penetration.

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