DougB
Member
I've been thinking of getting an accurate bolt-action rifle for shooting at the range, and possibly a little small-game hunting (ground squirrels and jackrabbits). Most shooting would be at 50-100 yards, but I might get out to 200 or more on occassion. I want something inexpensive to shoot (and I'm not currently interested in reloading for it). I have several semi-auto .223 rifles and a fair supply of inexpensive ammo (surplus, PMP, Wolf, etc.). The .17 HMR tempts me because I've heard it is very accuate, and I know the ammo is relatively cheap (about $10-$12 per box of 50). I'm sure the .223/5.56mm is available in very accurate "target" loadings, but I want inexpensive shooting, so I probably won't buy this. So I'm comparing .17 HMR with inexpensive surplus or commercial .223 ammo.
As for rifles, I'd probably opt for a stainless Savage or Marlin .17 HMR with heavy barrel and laminated stock. I'm not sure what I'd pick in .223, but probably a similar configuration - maybe a Savage.
So, given my ammo choices, which would likely be more accurate for me? I'm sure the .223 is capable of longer ranges, and will be less affected by wind, but on a relatively calm day at 100 yards, which is likely to give me better groups? My perception (maybe wrong) is that about any .17 HMR factory load is likely to be very accurate, whereas the inexpensive .223 ammo I'll be shooting will probably be a little less consistent. Of course, if there is really accurate .223 ammo available at low cost, that might tip the scales in its favor.
What (roughly) is the maximum range of the .17 HMR? Any other thoughts?
The lower muzzle blast and recoil of the .17 HMR would be minor plusses, but offset by the lower power compared to the .223, so these aren't significant factors for me.
Thanks
Doug
As for rifles, I'd probably opt for a stainless Savage or Marlin .17 HMR with heavy barrel and laminated stock. I'm not sure what I'd pick in .223, but probably a similar configuration - maybe a Savage.
So, given my ammo choices, which would likely be more accurate for me? I'm sure the .223 is capable of longer ranges, and will be less affected by wind, but on a relatively calm day at 100 yards, which is likely to give me better groups? My perception (maybe wrong) is that about any .17 HMR factory load is likely to be very accurate, whereas the inexpensive .223 ammo I'll be shooting will probably be a little less consistent. Of course, if there is really accurate .223 ammo available at low cost, that might tip the scales in its favor.
What (roughly) is the maximum range of the .17 HMR? Any other thoughts?
The lower muzzle blast and recoil of the .17 HMR would be minor plusses, but offset by the lower power compared to the .223, so these aren't significant factors for me.
Thanks
Doug
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