.22 WMR VS .17 HMR WHICH IS BETTER

gsi09907

I am about to buy a new target rifle. I currently have a .22 LR and a 7mm Mag. I can't decide between the .17 HMR or the .22 WMR. Everyone I have asked give conflicting answeres as to which is the best purchase. I only target shoot and max range is 125 yds. What can anyone tell me about either one and what is the most fun between the two[?][?][?][?][?]

dfletcher

They're both fun - that's the problem!

I have a CZ 452 target model in 17 HMR. I also have a CZ 452 full length stock in 22 WMR. The CZ 452 in 17 HMR is easily one of the most accurate rifle I own & that includes a Rem 40X & a bunch of other centerfire target rifles.

The 22 mag really doesn't have a great rep for accuracy, the 17 HMR beats it hands down. If you're punching paper at 100 to 125 yds the 17 HMR is really a clear winner.

17 HMR ammo is more expensive. I usually pick it up at gun shows for about $9.50 per 50 rds. 22 Mag ammo is about $3.00 per 50 cheaper.

Just a suggestion - try the CZ 452 Target model with a Bushnell 6 to 18X with 50mm AO scope. You should be under 1" easy at 100 yds.

remington nut

i can't comment on the 17hmr, but with my .22 wmr at 100 yds i can empty a 7 rd magazine into a quarter size target all day long off a steady rest, with the right ammo. every gun is different i found the right ammo with my marlin 25mn and have 100% confidence in it at 100 yards, havent pushed it passed that, but wouldnt hestitate if i had to.

DEG305

17HMR., untill the wind starts to blow!

Colonel Plink

quote:Originally posted by DEG305
17HMR., untill the wind starts to blow!


Remington makes ballistic-tipped ammo in 22wmr, so that's what I use on prairie dogs out to 150 yards. Since my 22 Mag is paid for, I don't have any use for a 17 rimfire. I love 'em, but just don't have any use for one.

7.62x39

For a target rifle get the 17HMR

mbsams

I have both == the 22 mag shoots into a quarter sixe group alright but the 17 goes into a dime = the 17 is better for little ground squirrels and the mag is far better for turkey, coyote, and Javelena.

moreammoplz

I have both myself. I have to give the edge to my Savage .17 cal. Groups are a bit better at 100 yards. I only wish the ammo was a little cheaper for how much I shoot it. Best I have found was $8.50 for 50 rds.

p3skyking

I don't own either a .22Mag or a .17 but sell and have shot both.

Stick with the .22Mag. It is an established round that is not going to lose favor and be discontinued.

It is superior in a crosswind.

It is available most everywhere.

It is cheaper to shoot.

In an emergency you can always shoot .22 LR in your weapon.

Robin

"Better" is subjective and would ultimately depend on your intended purpose. Too a great degree the two rounds are mostly similar and the differences are either better or worse depending expected performance levels for the specific use. I have both the .22 mag in a Ruger semi-auto (9/22)and the 17hmr in a Marlin 17VS. I chose the .17HMR for my second rifle on a Wyoming prarie dog hunt 2 years ago. Our guide carried a 22. mag and attributed the .17 HMR's success to gun rag advertising during the first day of our hunt. He was not a believer in the .17 HMR at all.
By the middle of the third day he was using my rifle and telling me he was going to replace his .22 mag with a 17HMR. To me his response indicated for that particular purpose, under the prevailing conditions, the .17HMR was perceived as superior. Different conditions may have resulted in different performance. Its nice to have these sort of choices.

mond

in my opinion i have had both ..the hornet wins !! too much wind with the .17, wow.....[:D]but good day 180yds,small mammals.
.22 hornet s/p,no probs 180/200yds..its finished upto 60lb+ ![;)]

Cubslover

HMR hands down. Unsurpassed accuracy and distance than any other rimfire.