.17 HMR vs .22 Magnum
Part of our full caliber comparison chart — energy, drop and recoil for every rifle caliber side by side.
The .17 HMR vs .22 Magnum comparison covers two rimfire magnums built for varmint hunting. The .17 HMR (17gr V-MAX at 2550 fps) shoots flatter with only 8.5 inches of drop at 200 yards, while the .22 Magnum (30gr V-MAX at 2200 fps) drops 15.7 inches. Energy at 200 yards measures 72 ft-lbs for the .17 HMR and 70 ft-lbs for the .22 Magnum. Both produce negligible recoil under 1 ft-lb. The .17 HMR's higher velocity and flatter trajectory make it easier to hit small targets at range. The .22 Magnum's heavier bullet bucks wind better and penetrates deeper on larger varmints. The .22 Magnum also works in revolvers for trail carry. Performance varies with ammunition selection and barrel length.
Ammunition Parameters
.17 HMR Parameters (Reference Load)
.22 Magnum Parameters (Reference Load)
.17 HMR vs .22 Magnum Ballistics Chart
Comparing bullet drop at various ranges between .17 HMR and .22 Magnum.
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.17 HMR vs .22 Magnum Energy Comparison
Comparing the muzzle energy and energy retention at various distances between .17 HMR and .22 Magnum.
.17 HMR vs .22 Magnum Recoil
Comparing recoil energy and impulse between .17 HMR and .22 Magnum.
.17 HMR Recoil (Reference Load)
.22 Magnum Recoil (Reference Load)
Notes:
- Recoil calculations based on bullet weight, velocity, powder charge, and firearm weight
- Recoil energy indicates the felt force when firing the weapon
- Recoil impulse represents momentum transfer during firing
- Actual felt recoil can vary based on grip, stance, and firearm design
.17 HMR vs .22 Magnum Velocity
Velocity decay from muzzle to 250 yards for .17 HMR and .22 Magnum.
.17 HMR vs .22 Magnum Average Cost
Comparing cost per round and training affordability between .17 HMR and .22 Magnum.
Cheapest .17 HMR Deals
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