5.7×28 vs. 17 HMR: Ballistics, Performance, and Choosing the Right Round

Choosing the right ammunition can be a daunting task, especially when comparing rounds designed for different purposes. The 5.7x28mm and the .17 HMR (Hornady Magnum Rimfire) are two such cartridges. While both are relatively small and offer high velocity, they cater to distinct needs and scenarios. This comprehensive comparison dives deep into the 5.7×28 vs 17 hmr debate, providing a detailed analysis of their ballistics, performance characteristics, intended uses, and overall suitability for various applications. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter, a varmint hunter, or simply curious about these intriguing cartridges, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision.

A Closer Look at the 5.7x28mm Cartridge

The 5.7x28mm, developed by FN Herstal in the late 1980s, was initially designed for military and law enforcement applications. Its primary purpose was to provide a cartridge with greater range, accuracy, and terminal performance than 9mm Parabellum, while still being controllable in lightweight firearms. The 5.7×28 achieves this through its small-diameter, high-velocity projectile, which offers a flatter trajectory and increased penetration compared to traditional pistol rounds.

This cartridge is known for its bottlenecked design and relatively high velocity. Its lightweight projectiles allow for reduced recoil, enabling faster follow-up shots. The 5.7×28’s design also allows for high magazine capacity in firearms chambered for it. While initially limited to FN firearms like the P90 and Five-seveN, the 5.7×28 has gained popularity in the civilian market, with various manufacturers now offering rifles and pistols chambered for it.

Key Characteristics of the 5.7x28mm

• High velocity: Projectiles typically travel at speeds exceeding 2,000 feet per second.
• Flat trajectory: Reduced bullet drop over longer distances.
• Light recoil: Facilitates faster and more accurate follow-up shots.
• Armor-piercing capabilities (specific loads): Designed to penetrate body armor.
• High magazine capacity: Firearms can hold a large number of rounds.

Exploring the .17 HMR Cartridge

The .17 HMR, introduced by Hornady in 2002, is a rimfire cartridge designed primarily for varmint hunting and target shooting. It’s based on the .22 WMR (Winchester Magnum Rimfire) case, necked down to accept a .17 caliber bullet. The .17 HMR’s popularity stems from its exceptional accuracy, flat trajectory, and devastating terminal performance on small game at moderate ranges. It quickly became a favorite among hunters seeking a cartridge with superior ballistics compared to the .22 LR, but with less noise and recoil than centerfire rifle cartridges.

The .17 HMR offers a significant improvement in trajectory and wind resistance compared to the .22 LR, making it easier to hit small targets at longer distances. Its small, lightweight projectiles expand rapidly upon impact, delivering significant energy transfer to the target. While not designed for self-defense or tactical applications, the .17 HMR excels in situations where accuracy and minimal pelt damage are paramount.

Key Characteristics of the .17 HMR

• Exceptional accuracy: Known for its inherent precision.
• Flat trajectory: Extends the effective range for small targets.
• High velocity: Projectiles typically travel at speeds exceeding 2,500 feet per second.
• Rapid expansion: Delivers significant energy transfer to the target.
• Low recoil: Makes it easy to shoot accurately.

Ballistic Performance: 5.7×28 vs. 17 HMR

When comparing the 5.7×28 vs 17 hmr, a crucial aspect is their ballistic performance. This includes velocity, trajectory, energy, and wind drift. While both cartridges offer high velocity, their performance characteristics differ significantly due to their different bullet weights and designs.

Velocity and Trajectory

The .17 HMR generally boasts higher initial velocities than the 5.7×28, often exceeding 2,500 feet per second. This translates to an extremely flat trajectory at typical varmint hunting ranges (out to 150 yards). The 5.7×28, while still fast, typically has velocities in the 2,000-2,200 feet per second range, resulting in slightly more bullet drop at longer distances. However, the 5.7×28 retains more energy at longer ranges due to its heavier bullet.

Energy and Terminal Ballistics

The 5.7×28 typically carries more energy downrange than the .17 HMR. While the .17 HMR expands rapidly upon impact, its lightweight bullet sheds velocity and energy quickly. The 5.7×28, with its heavier bullet, maintains more of its initial energy, resulting in greater penetration and potentially more effective terminal performance on larger targets. The terminal ballistics of the 5.7×28 are also influenced by the specific bullet design, with some loads designed for rapid expansion and others for deep penetration.

Wind Drift

The .17 HMR’s lightweight bullet is more susceptible to wind drift than the heavier 5.7×28 projectile. This means that in windy conditions, the .17 HMR will be more affected by crosswinds, requiring the shooter to make greater adjustments to compensate. The 5.7×28, with its higher ballistic coefficient, is less affected by wind, making it a more forgiving choice in windy environments.

Firearm Platforms: Rifles and Pistols

The availability of firearms chambered for each cartridge is another important consideration. The 5.7×28 was initially limited to FN firearms, but now has expanded to include pistols and rifles from other manufacturers, such as Ruger and Diamondback. The .17 HMR is primarily chambered in rifles, with a wide variety of bolt-action, semi-automatic, and single-shot rifles available from numerous manufacturers.

5.7×28 Firearm Options

• FN Five-seveN pistol: The original pistol chambered in 5.7×28.
• FN P90: A compact submachine gun designed for military and law enforcement.
• Ruger-57 pistol: A popular and affordable 5.7×28 pistol.
• Ruger AR-57: An AR-15 upper receiver chambered in 5.7×28.
• CMMG Banshee: A short-barreled rifle/pistol chambered in 5.7×28.

.17 HMR Firearm Options

• Savage Arms A17: A semi-automatic rifle designed specifically for the .17 HMR.
• Marlin XT-17: A bolt-action rifle known for its accuracy.
• CZ 457: A highly customizable bolt-action rifle.
• Ruger Precision Rimfire: A precision-oriented bolt-action rifle.
• Henry Repeating Arms Lever Action: A classic lever-action rifle chambered in .17 HMR.

Intended Uses and Applications

The 5.7×28 and .17 HMR are designed for very different purposes. Understanding these intended uses is critical when deciding between the 5.7×28 vs 17 hmr.

5.7×28: Self-Defense and Tactical Applications

The 5.7×28 was designed as a self-defense cartridge for military and law enforcement personnel. Its high velocity, flat trajectory, and armor-piercing capabilities (with specific loads) make it an effective choice for engaging threats at longer ranges. While it can be used for hunting small game, it is generally considered to be overkill for this purpose. Its primary strength lies in its ability to penetrate barriers and deliver sufficient energy to neutralize threats.

.17 HMR: Varmint Hunting and Target Shooting

The .17 HMR excels in varmint hunting and target shooting. Its exceptional accuracy and flat trajectory make it ideal for engaging small targets at moderate ranges. It’s a popular choice for hunting prairie dogs, squirrels, rabbits, and other small game. The .17 HMR’s rapid expansion ensures humane kills, while its small bullet size minimizes pelt damage. It is not suitable for self-defense due to its limited penetration and small bullet size.

Recoil and Controllability

Both the 5.7×28 and .17 HMR are known for their low recoil, making them easy to shoot accurately. However, there are subtle differences in their recoil characteristics. The .17 HMR generally has slightly less recoil than the 5.7×28, especially in rifles. This makes it a good choice for new shooters or those who are sensitive to recoil. The 5.7×28, while still having manageable recoil, produces slightly more muzzle rise, particularly in pistols. However, with proper technique, the 5.7×28 is still very controllable, allowing for fast and accurate follow-up shots.

Ammunition Availability and Cost

Ammunition availability and cost are important factors to consider when choosing a cartridge. Generally, .17 HMR ammunition is more readily available and less expensive than 5.7×28 ammunition. This is due to the .17 HMR’s widespread popularity and the greater number of manufacturers producing it. The 5.7×28, being a less common cartridge, tends to be more expensive and can be harder to find, especially during periods of high demand. Prices can also vary depending on the specific load and manufacturer.

Accuracy Comparison: A Matter of Application

Both cartridges are capable of excellent accuracy, but the .17 HMR generally has an edge in this department, particularly in rifles. The .17 HMR’s inherent accuracy, combined with its flat trajectory, makes it easier to achieve consistent hits on small targets at longer ranges. The 5.7×28, while accurate, is more commonly found in pistols, where accuracy is often less critical than other factors such as firepower and penetration. However, in rifles, the 5.7×28 can still deliver respectable accuracy, especially with high-quality ammunition.

Real-World Value and Applications

The real-world value of each cartridge depends heavily on the intended application. For varmint hunting and target shooting, the .17 HMR offers exceptional value due to its accuracy, flat trajectory, and relatively low cost. For self-defense and tactical applications, the 5.7×28 provides greater value due to its penetration, firepower, and ability to neutralize threats at longer ranges. Choosing the right cartridge for the job is essential for maximizing its effectiveness and achieving the desired results.

Users consistently report excellent results using the .17 HMR for pest control around farms and ranches. Its accuracy allows for precise shots, minimizing the risk of collateral damage. In our experience, the 5.7×28 performs admirably in scenarios where barrier penetration is a concern, such as engaging threats inside vehicles.

Pros and Cons: 5.7x28mm

Pros

• High velocity and flat trajectory
• Armor-piercing capabilities (with specific loads)
• High magazine capacity
• Effective terminal performance on larger targets
• Suitable for self-defense and tactical applications

Cons

• More expensive and less available ammunition
• Greater recoil than .17 HMR
• Overkill for small game hunting
• Limited firearm options compared to .17 HMR
• Can be louder than .17 HMR

Pros and Cons: .17 HMR

Pros

• Exceptional accuracy
• Extremely flat trajectory
• Low recoil
• Readily available and affordable ammunition
• Ideal for varmint hunting and target shooting

Cons

• Limited penetration
• Small bullet size
• Susceptible to wind drift
• Not suitable for self-defense
• Limited terminal performance on larger targets

Ideal User Profile: Who Are These Cartridges Best For?

The 5.7×28 is best suited for individuals seeking a high-velocity, flat-shooting cartridge for self-defense or tactical applications. It’s a good choice for those who prioritize firepower, penetration, and the ability to engage threats at longer ranges. The .17 HMR, on the other hand, is ideal for varmint hunters and target shooters who value accuracy, flat trajectory, and low recoil. It’s a great option for those who want to eliminate small pests or practice their marksmanship skills without breaking the bank.

Key Alternatives

For those seeking an alternative to the 5.7×28 for self-defense, the 9mm Parabellum is a popular and readily available option. For varmint hunting, the .22 LR remains a versatile and affordable choice, although it lacks the .17 HMR’s flat trajectory and accuracy.

Expert Verdict: Choosing the Right Round

In the debate of 5.7×28 vs 17 hmr, the best choice hinges entirely on your intended use. The 5.7×28 is a specialized cartridge designed for self-defense and tactical applications, while the .17 HMR excels in varmint hunting and target shooting. Consider your primary needs, budget, and firearm preferences to make an informed decision. Both cartridges offer unique advantages and can be valuable tools in the hands of a skilled shooter.