Understanding Seventeen Rimfire Cartridges
The world of rimfire cartridges holds a special place in the hearts of shooters, hunters, and plinkers. These rounds, known for their efficiency and accuracy, have carved a significant niche in the shooting sports. Among them, the seventeen rimfire cartridges stand out, representing a compelling blend of performance and accessibility. This article delves into the specifics of reloading these cartridges, offering a detailed guide for enthusiasts eager to customize their ammunition.
Before we begin, it’s vital to stress that reloading is a serious undertaking, one that requires attention to detail and a unwavering commitment to safety. This article is designed to offer informative data but should not be a substitute for hands-on training and adherence to the highest safety standards.
Seventeen HMR (Hornady Magnum Rimfire)
The genesis of the seventeen rimfire cartridges can be traced back to the pursuit of greater accuracy and velocity in rimfire ammunition. These rounds were designed to achieve flatter trajectories and improved terminal ballistics, catering to the demands of varmint hunting and target shooting.
Let’s explore the prominent members of this family:
The seventeen Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) emerged as a groundbreaker. It’s renowned for its flat trajectory and exceptional accuracy at extended ranges. This cartridge uses a small, lightweight bullet propelled at high speeds, resulting in minimal wind drift and a high degree of precision. It is a favorite for small game hunting, pest control, and target practice where a longer range is needed.
Seventeen Mach Two
The seventeen Mach Two is another notable contender in the rimfire arena. It utilizes a similar bullet diameter as the HMR but is designed around the forty-five long rifle case. The Mach Two offers a flatter trajectory compared to traditional .22 LR rounds, enhancing accuracy at longer distances. It serves well for target shooting and plinking, providing an upgrade in performance for shooters.
Seventeen WSM (Winchester Super Magnum)
The seventeen Winchester Super Magnum (WSM) pushes the boundaries of seventeen rimfire performance. This cartridge is the most powerful of the three, packing a punch and delivering unmatched energy on impact. The WSM is designed for use against larger varmint and small game targets, providing hunters with a potent and reliable tool for their needs.
Safety First: Essential Reloading Precautions
Reloading ammunition brings significant benefits, but it also carries inherent risks. Before you begin, it is imperative to understand and adhere to stringent safety measures.
The core principle is to approach reloading with a mindset of constant awareness. Always wear appropriate safety glasses to protect your eyes from potential hazards such as ejected primers, brass fragments, or powder spills. Consider wearing gloves to avoid contaminating your hands.
Your reloading space needs to be clean, organized, and free from distractions. Reloading powders and primers should be stored in their original containers in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and sources of ignition.
Carefully read and understand the reloading data for each cartridge you intend to reload. Never exceed the maximum powder charge listed in your reloading manuals. Starting with the minimum recommended charge and working your way up in small increments is the safest approach, while carefully watching for signs of excessive pressure.
A critical component of reloading safety is inspection. Examine each piece of brass for signs of damage, such as cracks, bulges, or splits, before proceeding. A damaged case can pose a significant danger during firing.
Always double-check all your steps during the reloading process. Making a mistake, such as using the wrong powder or an incorrect bullet weight, can lead to catastrophic results.
Gathering the Necessary Reloading Components
Successful reloading demands quality components and attention to detail. Let’s explore the essential elements:
Powder selection is at the heart of the reloading process. Certain powders are favored for seventeen rimfire cartridges because of their burn rates and ability to achieve specific performance goals. Look for powder types specifically designed for rimfire cartridges. Remember, the correct powder can affect both accuracy and velocity.
Primers, the spark plugs of your ammunition, play a crucial role in ignition. Match the primer type to your chosen cartridge. The primer should be the correct size and sensitivity, as recommended in your reloading data. The primer must function properly to ignite the powder reliably.
The choice of bullets significantly affects the terminal ballistics and accuracy of your reloads. Select bullets specifically designed for the seventeen rimfire family. Consider bullet weight, shape, and construction, as these variables will impact your projectile’s performance. Different bullet weights and shapes will influence the trajectory, wind drift, and impact characteristics.
Properly preparing your brass cases is paramount. Start by cleaning your spent cases to remove any residue. Then, the brass needs to be trimmed to the specified length to ensure consistent chambering and prevent pressure problems. Next, you should deburr the cases, removing any sharp edges that can impede the bullet’s seating.
Reloading Data Tables for Seventeen Rimfire Cartridges
The following tables present starting and maximum load data for some of the most popular seventeen rimfire cartridges. Please remember that these are representative loads and are not a definitive guide. Always consult multiple reputable reloading manuals and sources, and start low and work your way up with extreme caution. *This data is for informational purposes only, and it is critical that users consult official sources before using this data for reloading.*
Seventeen HMR (Hornady Magnum Rimfire)
| Bullet Weight (grains) | Powder Type | Starting Load (grains) | Maximum Load (grains) | Primer Type | Case Trim Length (inches) | OAL (inches) | Estimated Velocity (fps) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 17 | Hodgdon H4227 | 5.0 | 6.0 | Small Rifle | 0.860 | 1.400 | 2500 – 2600 | Accuracy can vary, test different loads. |
Seventeen Mach Two
| Bullet Weight (grains) | Powder Type | Starting Load (grains) | Maximum Load (grains) | Primer Type | Case Trim Length (inches) | OAL (inches) | Estimated Velocity (fps) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 17 | Alliant Reloder 10x | 2.0 | 2.5 | Small Rifle | 0.775 | 1.155 | 2200-2300 | Work up charges carefully, check for pressure signs. |
Seventeen WSM (Winchester Super Magnum)
| Bullet Weight (grains) | Powder Type | Starting Load (grains) | Maximum Load (grains) | Primer Type | Case Trim Length (inches) | OAL (inches) | Estimated Velocity (fps) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 | Hodgdon H4227 | 8.0 | 9.0 | Small Rifle | 1.400 | 1.550 | 2900 – 3000 | This cartridge has higher pressure, work up very slowly. |
Reloading Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now, let’s go through the fundamental steps of reloading:
Prepare the brass. Inspect the cases, clean them, and trim them to the correct length.
Prime the cases using your priming tool. Make sure the primers are seated firmly and consistently.
Charge the cases with the appropriate amount of powder, using a powder measure or a scale. Double-check your powder charges.
Seat the bullets using your bullet seating die. Ensure that the bullet is seated to the correct overall cartridge length (OAL).
Inspect the loaded cartridges visually and measure the OAL. Ensure that the bullets are seated correctly and that there are no signs of damage.
Take your reloads to the range and test them for accuracy and performance. Monitor your velocity using a chronograph and keep a detailed log of your loads, including the date, powder, bullet type, and other variables.
Troubleshooting Common Reloading Issues
Despite your best efforts, issues can arise. Here’s a look at some common problems and how to address them:
Overpressure symptoms include flattened or cratered primers, difficult bolt extraction, and ejector marks on the case head. Stop reloading immediately and consult a reloading manual or a more experienced reloader if you see signs of excessive pressure.
If a cartridge fails to fire, check the primer. Ensure the firing pin is working correctly and try seating the primer more deeply.
Inconsistent accuracy might be caused by several issues: inconsistencies in powder charges, inconsistent bullet seating depth, or a mismatch between the bullet and your rifle’s barrel. Analyze each aspect of your reloading process to isolate the problem.
Seating the bullet too deep or too shallowly can cause issues. Ensure you are using the correct seating die and adjusting it to achieve the specified OAL.
Bulging cases may signal excessive pressure or improper die adjustment. Review your reloading data and confirm you have set your dies up according to the instructions.
Optimizing Reloading: Tips and Considerations
Reloading is both a science and an art. Here are some tips to help you refine your process:
Conduct accuracy testing at various distances. This will help you find the optimal load for your firearm.
Use a chronograph to measure the velocity of your reloads. This data is valuable for optimizing your loads and matching your ammunition to your shooting needs.
Temperature and pressure can affect the performance of your reloads.
Maintain meticulous records of your reloading process. Record all data, including the bullet weight, powder type and charge, primer type, and OAL. The more detailed your records, the easier it is to refine your loads.
Conclusion
Reloading seventeen rimfire cartridges offers a gratifying experience for those seeking to tailor their ammunition to their specific needs. By understanding the fundamentals of reloading, prioritizing safety, and adhering to established procedures, you can unlock the potential of your seventeen rimfire firearms.
The reloading process rewards the meticulous, patient, and observant reloader. This is a complex endeavor that requires a strong commitment to safety, and it should never be taken lightly. Always respect the power of ammunition and the risks involved.
***Disclaimer:** This article provides general guidelines for reloading seventeen rimfire cartridges. Reloading is an inherently dangerous activity, and the reader is solely responsible for their own safety and the results of their reloading efforts. Always consult reputable reloading manuals and sources and prioritize safety above all else.*
References
Hodgdon Powder Company. *Hodgdon Reloading Data Center*.
Sierra Bullets Reloading Manual.
Alliant Powder. *Alliant Powder Reloading Guide*.
Lyman Reloading Handbook.
Hornady Handbook of Cartridge Reloading.
