5.7×28 vs 17 HMR: A Comprehensive Comparison for Informed Shooters

Choosing the right ammunition is a crucial decision for any shooter, whether for target practice, hunting, or self-defense. Two popular rounds that often come up in discussions are the 5.7x28mm and the .17 HMR (Hornady Magnum Rimfire). Both offer unique advantages and cater to different applications. This article provides a detailed 5.7×28 vs 17 HMR comparison, examining their ballistics, effective range, common uses, and overall performance, empowering you to make an informed choice.

Understanding the 5.7x28mm

The 5.7x28mm cartridge was developed by FN Herstal in the late 1980s and early 1990s, primarily for military and law enforcement applications. Its design aimed to provide a lightweight, high-velocity round that could penetrate body armor more effectively than traditional 9mm ammunition. The 5.7×28 quickly gained traction due to its flat trajectory, manageable recoil, and impressive terminal ballistics.

Key Features of the 5.7×28

High Velocity: The 5.7×28 round boasts a high muzzle velocity, typically exceeding 2,000 feet per second (fps), depending on the specific load and barrel length.
Flat Trajectory: Its high velocity contributes to a flatter trajectory, making it easier to engage targets at longer distances with minimal holdover.
Low Recoil: Compared to larger caliber rounds, the 5.7×28 produces significantly less recoil, allowing for faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy.
Armor Penetration: Some 5.7×28 variants are designed to penetrate body armor, making them attractive for military and law enforcement use.
Lightweight: The cartridge’s relatively small size and weight allow users to carry more ammunition without significantly increasing their load.

Common Uses for the 5.7×28

The 5.7×28 is commonly used in:

Military and Law Enforcement: Its armor-penetrating capabilities and high velocity make it a viable option for tactical applications.
Personal Defense: The low recoil and high capacity magazines offered by firearms chambered in 5.7×28 make it suitable for personal defense.
Target Shooting: The flat trajectory and manageable recoil make it enjoyable for target shooting and recreational use.

Exploring the .17 HMR

The .17 HMR (Hornady Magnum Rimfire) is a rimfire cartridge introduced in 2002 by Hornady. It is based on the .22 WMR (Winchester Magnum Rimfire) case, necked down to accept a .17 caliber bullet. The .17 HMR was designed as a flat-shooting, accurate round for varmint hunting and target shooting.

Key Features of the .17 HMR

High Velocity (Rimfire): The .17 HMR is known for its high velocity for a rimfire cartridge, often exceeding 2,500 fps.
Flat Trajectory: Its high velocity results in a very flat trajectory, ideal for precise shots at longer distances.
Excellent Accuracy: The .17 HMR is renowned for its accuracy, making it a popular choice for target shooting and small game hunting.
Low Recoil: As a rimfire cartridge, the .17 HMR produces very little recoil, making it comfortable to shoot for extended periods.
Varmint Hunting: The combination of velocity, accuracy, and terminal ballistics makes it highly effective for varmint hunting, such as prairie dogs and squirrels.

Common Uses for the .17 HMR

The .17 HMR is commonly used in:

Varmint Hunting: Its primary application is varmint hunting, where accuracy and flat trajectory are critical.
Target Shooting: Its accuracy and low recoil make it an excellent choice for target shooting and plinking.
Small Game Hunting: While suitable for small game, ethical considerations regarding the small bullet size and potential for wounding should be taken into account.

5.7×28 vs 17 HMR: A Detailed Comparison

Now, let’s delve into a more detailed 5.7×28 vs 17 HMR comparison across various aspects:

Ballistics and Velocity

The 5.7×28 typically has a muzzle velocity ranging from 2,000 to 2,600 fps, depending on the specific load and barrel length. The .17 HMR boasts a higher muzzle velocity, often exceeding 2,500 fps. However, the 5.7×28 generally maintains its velocity better at longer distances due to its heavier bullet and more aerodynamic design. The 5.7×28‘s ballistic coefficient is also generally superior, resulting in less wind drift and better long-range performance.

Effective Range

The effective range of the 5.7×28 is generally considered to be around 150-200 yards for practical applications, although it can be accurate at longer distances. The .17 HMR is most effective within 100-150 yards, with its accuracy and terminal ballistics diminishing significantly beyond that range. The 5.7×28‘s heavier bullet and higher energy retention give it an edge in longer-range engagements.

Recoil

Both the 5.7×28 and the .17 HMR are known for their low recoil. However, the .17 HMR generally produces even less recoil than the 5.7×28. This makes the .17 HMR particularly appealing to new shooters or those sensitive to recoil.

Terminal Ballistics

The terminal ballistics of the 5.7×28 are more significant than the .17 HMR, offering greater penetration and energy transfer. The 5.7×28 is designed to create a more substantial wound cavity, making it more effective for self-defense and tactical applications. The .17 HMR, while effective on small varmints, lacks the stopping power of the 5.7×28 for larger targets.

Firearm Availability

Firearms chambered in 5.7×28 are less common and generally more expensive than those chambered in .17 HMR. The FN Five-seveN pistol and the Ruger-57 are popular choices for the 5.7×28, while a wide variety of rifles are available in .17 HMR from manufacturers like Savage, Ruger, and CZ. The greater availability of .17 HMR firearms makes it a more accessible option for many shooters.

Ammunition Cost and Availability

Ammunition for the .17 HMR is typically more affordable and readily available than 5.7×28 ammunition. This is due to the .17 HMR being a more common rimfire cartridge, while the 5.7×28 is a specialized centerfire round. The lower cost of .17 HMR ammunition makes it a more economical choice for high-volume shooting and practice.

Purpose and Intended Use

The 5.7×28 is primarily designed for military, law enforcement, and personal defense applications, where its armor-penetrating capabilities and higher stopping power are valuable. The .17 HMR is primarily designed for varmint hunting and target shooting, where its accuracy and flat trajectory are advantageous. Therefore, the intended use case is a critical factor in determining which cartridge is more suitable.

Pros and Cons: 5.7×28 vs 17 HMR

5.7×28 Pros

Higher stopping power and penetration
Effective at longer ranges
Armor-penetrating capabilities
Suitable for self-defense and tactical applications

5.7×28 Cons

More expensive ammunition
Less common firearms
Higher recoil compared to .17 HMR

.17 HMR Pros

Excellent accuracy
Very flat trajectory
Low recoil
Affordable and readily available ammunition
Wide variety of firearms available

.17 HMR Cons

Less stopping power and penetration
Limited effective range
Not suitable for self-defense against larger threats

Conclusion: Which is Right for You?

The choice between the 5.7×28 and the .17 HMR depends heavily on your specific needs and intended use. If you prioritize stopping power, armor penetration, and longer-range effectiveness for self-defense or tactical applications, the 5.7×28 is the better choice. However, if you are primarily interested in varmint hunting, target shooting, and recreational plinking, and value accuracy, low recoil, and affordable ammunition, the .17 HMR is the more practical option. Consider your priorities and carefully weigh the pros and cons of each cartridge before making a decision. Ultimately, understanding the nuances of the 5.7×28 vs 17 HMR debate will lead you to the best choice for your specific shooting needs. [See also: Best Self-Defense Ammo] [See also: Rimfire Cartridge Guide]