.17 HMR vs .22 WMR
Typical factory loads side by side: speed, energy, BC, twist, range and what each one is built for.
The short answer
With typical loads, the .17 HMR is about 640 ft/s faster at the muzzle (2,550 vs 1,910 ft/s).
The .22 WMR carries about 32% more energy at the muzzle (324 vs 245 ft-lbs), which usually also means more recoil.
On the same size target, the .17 HMR has the longer point-blank range (145 yd), so you can hold dead-on a bit farther without adjusting.
Side by side
| .17 HMR | .22 WMR | |
|---|---|---|
| Made for | .22 WMR necked to .17. Very flat and accurate for prairie dogs, squirrels and pests. | Rimfire magnum for rabbits, groundhogs, foxes and coyotes close in. |
| Typical load | 17 grV-Max | 40 grJHP |
| Muzzle speed | 2,550 ft/s | 1,910 ft/s |
| Muzzle energy | 245 ft-lbs | 324 ft-lbs |
| Typical BC (G1) | 0.125maker's published G1 | ≈ 0.11typical, varies by brand |
| Twist rate | 1:9 | 1:16 |
| Practical range | 150 yd | 125 yd |
| Point-blank range | 145 yd2" vital zone | 112 yd2" vital zone |
| Recommended platform | — | Revolver or full-size pistolVery light recoil, loud blast |
Which one fits you?
.17 HMR: .22 WMR necked to .17. Very flat and accurate for prairie dogs, squirrels and pests.
.22 WMR: Rimfire magnum for rabbits, groundhogs, foxes and coyotes close in.
For most hunters, the right pick is the one you can shoot accurately and comfortably, in a rifle that fits how you hunt. Good shot placement and a bullet built for your game matter more than small differences on paper.
More
Speed, energy and BC are typical figures for the listed load; real numbers vary by brand, lot and barrel length. Always check the ammo maker's data for your exact load.