A QUICK "PRIMER" ON 17 WSM AMMO
The .17 Winchester Super Magnum (17 WSM), launched by Winchester in 2013, stands as the fastest commercial rimfire cartridge ever produced. Engineered from a modified .27-caliber industrial nail gun blank, the 17 WSM fires a 20-grain projectile at velocities up to 3,000 feet per second, delivering explosive energy, minimal drop, and impressive accuracy out to extended ranges. This high-speed, flat-shooting round is purpose-built for long-range varmint hunting and precision rimfire shooting.
Shooters often compare the 17 WSM vs. 17 HMR, and while both are .17 caliber rimfire rounds, the difference in performance is substantial. The 17 WSM offers a significant velocity and energy advantage, making it superior for engaging coyotes, prairie dogs, and other pests at longer distances. However, due to its larger case and higher chamber pressure, the 17 WSM must be fired from a rifle specifically chambered for it; it is not interchangeable with 17 HMR firearms.
For ammunition options, Winchester’s Varmint HV and Hornady’s V-MAX lines are standout choices. Winchester offers 20-grain and 25-grain polymer-tipped loads designed for rapid expansion and effective terminal impact. Hornady’s V-MAX, trusted for its superior accuracy and explosive expansion, is a go-to for those seeking long-range consistency and small-game effectiveness. Brands like Browning and American Eagle also offer dependable rimfire loads that cater to hunters and target shooters alike.
TOP CONSIDERATIONS WHEN BUYING 17 WSM AMMO
When selecting 17 WSM ammo, it’s important to match your load selection with your shooting goals—whether you’re hunting varmints or zeroing in at 200+ yards. Here are the key factors to consider:
Purpose: The .17 Winchester Super Magnum is built for high-speed performance, making it an excellent choice for varmint hunting, coyote control, and long-range rimfire shooting. Its ultra-flat trajectory and explosive terminal effect make it a favorite among precision shooters and pest hunters. For casual plinking or budget-friendly practice, however, other rimfire calibers like .22 LR or 17 HMR may be more economical.
Bullet Weight: Most 17 WSM ammo is available in either 20-grain or 25-grain configurations. 20-grain bullets offer maximum velocity and flatter trajectories, ideal for shooting prairie dogs, squirrels, or jackrabbits at longer distances. 25-grain bullets fly slightly slower but carry more energy and resist wind drift better, great for predator hunting in open fields or breezy conditions.
Choosing a Manufacturer: Stick with trusted names that deliver proven rimfire performance. Winchester, the cartridge’s developer, produces several well-regarded options in its Varmint HV line. Hornady’s V-MAX loads are another favorite among long-range shooters, known for their explosive expansion and precision accuracy. You’ll also find dependable offerings from Browning and American Eagle, all available here at Target Sports USA.
Availability and Bulk Value: Because the 17 WSM is a niche rimfire caliber, it may not be as widely stocked as .22 LR or 17 HMR. To ensure uninterrupted range time or hunting readiness, consider purchasing bulk 17 WSM ammo when available. At Target Sports USA, we offer free shipping on bulk cases, helping you save while staying fully stocked.
17 WSM AMMO FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- Can I shoot 17 WSM in a 17 HMR rifle?
- No, you cannot. The 17 WSM and 17 HMR are not interchangeable. The 17 WSM has a larger case and significantly higher chamber pressures, requiring a firearm specifically chambered for it. Attempting to use 17 WSM in a 17 HMR rifle is extremely dangerous and can cause firearm damage or injury.
- What’s the effective range of the 17 WSM?
- The 17 Winchester Super Magnum is effective for varmint hunting out to 300 yards, thanks to its ultra-high velocity and flat trajectory. Shooters with dialed-in optics and proper technique can stretch it even further under ideal conditions, but most practical applications fall within the 200–300 yard range.
- Is the 17 WSM good for hunting?
- Yes. The 17 WSM is excellent for small game and varmint hunting, including prairie dogs, groundhogs, and coyotes. Its fast-moving polymer-tipped bullets deliver rapid expansion for quick, humane kills, though it’s not suitable for deer or larger game due to its light bullet weight.
- How does the 17 WSM compare to the 17 HMR?
- The 17 WSM outperforms the 17 HMR in every ballistic category. While the 17 HMR fires a 17-grain bullet at around 2,550 fps, the 17 WSM launches a 20-grain bullet at 3,000 fps or more. This translates to a flatter trajectory, greater downrange energy, and improved wind resistance for the 17 WSM.
- What rifles are available for the 17 WSM?
- Several manufacturers produce rifles chambered for the 17 WSM. Savage Arms, Franklin Armory, and Ruger offer purpose-built bolt-action and semi-automatic rifles that can handle the higher pressures of this cartridge. These rifles are designed for long-range rimfire precision and varmint hunting.
- Is the 17 WSM a rimfire or centerfire cartridge?
- The 17 WSM is a rimfire cartridge, like the 17 HMR and .22 LR. Despite its impressive velocity and energy, it retains the rimfire ignition system, meaning it cannot be reloaded and relies on factory primed brass with an integrated rimfire primer.
- Can I reload 17 WSM ammunition?
- No. Since 17 WSM is a rimfire cartridge, it cannot be reloaded using traditional reloading methods. Rimfire cases are not built to accept new primers, and attempting to reload them is unsafe and not practical for most shooters.
- What bullet types are used in 17 WSM ammo?
- Most 17 WSM ammo uses polymer-tipped bullets like V-MAX or other varmint-specific designs. These bullets are engineered for rapid fragmentation on impact, making them ideal for long-range pest control where immediate expansion and terminal effect are desired.
- Is 17 WSM good for beginners?
- Yes, in many cases. The 17 WSM has minimal recoil, excellent accuracy, and is fun to shoot, making it accessible for newer shooters. However, the cost of ammo and availability of rifles compared to more common rimfires like .22 LR or 17 HMR may be a limiting factor for some.
- Where can I buy 17 WSM ammo online?
- You can find 17 WSM ammo for sale at Target Sports USA, where we offer trusted brands like Winchester, Hornady, Browning, and American Eagle. We also offer bulk 17 WSM ammo with free shipping, making it easy to stock up for varmint season or long-range rimfire sessions.
OUR TOP 17 WSM AMMO RECOMMENDATIONS
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Winchester Varmint HV 17 Winchester Super Magnum Ammunition 20 Grain Polymer Tip - S17W20: Engineered for high-speed varmint and predator control, delivering unmatched velocity and accuracy. With a muzzle velocity of 3,000 feet per second and energy of 400 foot-pounds, this rimfire cartridge provides flat trajectories and deep penetration, making it ideal for taking down small game and varmints at extended ranges.
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Federal American Eagle 17 Winchester Super Magnum Ammunition 20 Grain Tipped Varmint - AE17WSM1: With a muzzle velocity of 3,000 feet per second and energy of 400 foot-pounds, this ammunition delivers explosive expansion and deep penetration, making it ideal for varmint hunting and target shooting. The tipped varmint bullet design enhances accuracy and terminal performance, ensuring consistent results shot after shot.
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Browning BPR 17 Winchester Super Magnum Ammunition 25 Grain Polymer Tip - B196117050: With a muzzle velocity of 2,600 feet per second and energy of 375 foot-pounds, this ammunition delivers explosive expansion and deep penetration, making it ideal for varmint hunting and target shooting.
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Use Cases for 17 WSM Ammunition
- Varmint Hunting
- Small Game Hunting
- Long-Range Target Shooting
- Pest Control
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Popular 17 WSM Ammo Brands
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Common 17 WSM Ammo Caliber Name Variations
- 17 WSM
- .17 WSM
- 17 Winchester Super Magnum
THE 17 WSM AMMO "ROUND UP"
Whether you're preparing for a precision varmint hunt or simply looking to explore the outer limits of rimfire performance, our selection of 17 WSM ammo delivers the speed, consistency, and accuracy serious shooters demand. As the fastest commercial rimfire cartridge on the market, the .17 Winchester Super Magnum combines flat trajectories, explosive terminal energy, and minimal recoil, making it a standout choice for both field and range.
At Target Sports USA, we’re proud to stock premium 17 WSM loads from Winchester, Hornady, Browning, and American Eagle, including bulk case options with free shipping. When you choose 17 WSM from Target Sports USA, you’re choosing precision, value, and confidence in every shot.