WATERMELONS vs .22LR .22WMR .17HMR RIFLES

Published on February 4, 2023
Duration: 8:29

This video from Buckeye Ballistics explores the terminal ballistics of three popular rimfire cartridges (.22LR, .22WMR, and .17HMR) by shooting watermelons at close range. The test highlights the significant difference in impact energy and expansion capabilities between the cartridges, with the .22WMR and .17HMR demonstrating far more destructive power than the .22LR. The instructor provides detailed ammunition specifications and contextualizes the results with previous tests.

Quick Summary

In a ballistic test comparing .22LR, .22WMR, and .17HMR on watermelons, the .22LR showed minimal impact. The .22WMR (CCI V-MAX 30gr at 2200 FPS) and .17HMR (CCI A17 17gr at 2650 FPS) demonstrated significantly higher terminal ballistics, causing extensive fragmentation due to their velocity and ballistic tip designs.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Test Overview
  2. 00:20Previous Tests and Expectations
  3. 01:00Rifle Introductions and Related Content
  4. 01:43Ammunition Details
  5. 02:40.22LR Watermelon Shot
  6. 04:00.22WMR Watermelon Shot
  7. 05:10.17HMR Watermelon Shot
  8. 06:01Post-Shot Observations and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference in performance between .22LR, .22WMR, and .17HMR when shooting watermelons?

In this test, the .22LR caused minimal damage, only cracking the watermelon. The .22WMR and .17HMR, however, demonstrated significantly higher terminal ballistics, causing the watermelons to fragment extensively and be displaced.

Which ammunition was used for the .22LR, .22WMR, and .17HMR tests?

The .22LR test used CCI Stinger 32-grain hollow points (1640 FPS). The .22WMR used CCI V-MAX 30-grain polymer tip varmint rounds (2200 FPS), and the .17HMR used CCI A17 Varmint Tip 17-grain rounds (2650 FPS).

What rifles were used in the watermelon ballistic test?

The test featured a Talor Tiger Edition Ruger 10/22 for the .22LR, a Savage 93 chambered in .17 HMR, and a Rossi RS22M for the .22 Magnum.

Why do .22WMR and .17HMR rounds cause more damage than .22LR?

The increased destructive power of .22WMR and .17HMR rounds is attributed to their higher velocities and specialized ballistic tip designs, which allow for greater energy transfer and expansion upon impact with soft targets like watermelons.

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