Choosing the right cartridge can significantly impact your shooting experience. Both the .17 Remington and the .17 Hornet are popular choices for varmint hunting and target shooting, but they possess distinct characteristics that cater to different needs and preferences. This in-depth comparison will help you determine which cartridge best suits your shooting goals.
Ballistics: A Head-to-Head Comparison
The most significant difference lies in their ballistic performance. The .17 Remington, with its longer case and higher powder capacity, generally delivers higher velocities and flatter trajectories. This translates to increased effective range and better accuracy at longer distances.
Velocity and Energy:
- .17 Remington: Typically boasts muzzle velocities exceeding 3000 fps (feet per second) with significantly higher energy transfer compared to the .17 Hornet.
- .17 Hornet: Features lower muzzle velocities, usually around 2600 fps, resulting in less energy at the target.
Range and Accuracy:
- .17 Remington: Its superior ballistic characteristics allow for accurate shots at longer ranges, making it ideal for prairie dog hunting or longer-range target practice.
- .17 Hornet: Its shorter range makes it suitable for closer-range hunting and plinking. While accurate, its trajectory drops off more noticeably at distance.
Recoil and Weapon Choice:
Both cartridges are known for their relatively mild recoil, making them suitable for less experienced shooters. However, the .17 Remington’s higher velocity does produce slightly more recoil than the .17 Hornet.
Weapon choices for each cartridge differ. The .17 Remington is commonly chambered in bolt-action rifles, while the .17 Hornet is available in both bolt-action and semi-automatic rifles, as well as handguns. This broader availability offers more options for the shooter.
Cost and Availability:
Ammunition for both cartridges is generally available, but pricing can vary. The .17 Remington ammunition may be slightly more expensive due to its higher manufacturing complexity and more powerful components. Availability might also fluctuate based on regional demand and manufacturer production cycles.
Hunting Applications:
Both cartridges are excellent for varmint hunting, effectively dispatching small pests such as prairie dogs, ground squirrels, and rabbits.
- .17 Remington: Its higher velocity and energy make it more effective at longer ranges and on larger varmints.
- .17 Hornet: Suitable for closer-range varmint hunting and situations where reduced recoil is preferred.
Target Shooting:
Both cartridges are popular choices for target shooting, offering excellent accuracy. However, the .17 Remington's flatter trajectory and longer range provide an advantage in longer-range precision shooting competitions.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Cartridge
The choice between the .17 Remington and .17 Hornet depends heavily on your specific needs and shooting style. The .17 Remington provides superior ballistic performance, making it ideal for longer-range accuracy and varmint hunting. The .17 Hornet, with its milder recoil and greater weapon choice availability, is a practical and versatile option for closer-range applications and shooters who prioritize recoil reduction. Careful consideration of range, intended target, and personal preference will help you make the best decision.
