Choosing the right cartridge for your needs can be a daunting task, especially when comparing rounds as distinct as the 17 HMR and the 5.7x28mm. Both offer impressive ballistic performance, but their applications and characteristics differ significantly. This in-depth comparison will delve into the key features of each cartridge, helping you determine which best suits your specific requirements.
Cartridge Overview: A Quick Look
Before diving into specifics, let's briefly outline each cartridge:
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17 HMR (Hornady Magnum Rimfire): This popular rimfire cartridge is known for its flat trajectory and impressive accuracy at longer ranges compared to standard .22 LR rounds. It's commonly used for small game hunting, pest control, and target shooting.
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5.7x28mm: This centerfire cartridge, originally designed for military applications, is characterized by its high velocity, flat trajectory, and relatively small size. It's used in personal defense, law enforcement, and increasingly, competitive shooting.
Ballistic Performance: A Head-to-Head Comparison
The most significant difference lies in their ballistic performance:
| Feature | 17 HMR | 5.7x28mm |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .172 inches (4.37 mm) | 5.7mm |
| Type | Rimfire | Centerfire |
| Velocity | ~2550 fps (777 m/s) | ~2400-2800 fps (730-850 m/s) |
| Energy | ~200 ft-lbs (27 J) | ~375 ft-lbs (510 J) |
| Range | Effective range up to ~200 yards | Effective range up to ~300 yards |
| Trajectory | Flatter than .22 LR, but less flat than 5.7x28mm | Very flat |
| Recoil | Low | Moderate |
As the table shows, the 5.7x28mm boasts significantly higher energy and a flatter trajectory than the 17 HMR, making it more effective at longer ranges and against larger targets.
Penetration and Stopping Power
The 5.7x28mm's higher velocity and energy translate into superior penetration and stopping power, making it a more effective choice for self-defense and law enforcement scenarios. The 17 HMR, while capable of taking down small game, lacks the stopping power for larger animals or self-defense applications.
Applications and Use Cases
Their distinct ballistic profiles directly impact their best applications:
17 HMR: Ideal for
- Small game hunting: Squirrels, rabbits, and similar sized animals.
- Pest control: Control of rodents and other small pests.
- Target shooting: Provides accurate and enjoyable target practice.
5.7x28mm: Ideal for
- Personal defense: Offers a manageable recoil with good stopping power.
- Law enforcement: Used by some law enforcement agencies for its ability to penetrate soft body armor.
- Competitive shooting: Growing in popularity in various shooting disciplines.
Cost and Availability
The 17 HMR is generally more affordable than the 5.7x28mm ammunition. However, the availability of 5.7x28mm ammunition can vary depending on location and current market conditions.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Cartridge
The choice between the 17 HMR and 5.7x28mm depends entirely on your intended use. The 17 HMR excels as an accurate and affordable option for small game hunting, pest control, and recreational shooting. The 5.7x28mm, on the other hand, is a powerful and versatile round better suited for personal defense, law enforcement, and those seeking a higher performance round for competitive shooting. Careful consideration of your specific needs and desired capabilities is crucial in making the right decision.
