What Makes Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 Hornady Magnum – 1 out of 2 models Stand Out?
The Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 Hornady Magnum ammunition is a specialized round designed for varmint hunting, offering a flat trajectory and explosive expansion at longer ranges. Hornady has built a reputation for quality and precision, and this particular offering is no exception, promising reliable performance for hunters seeking to ethically and effectively manage varmint populations. I was drawn to this specific round because of its reputation for accuracy and the stories I’ve heard from fellow hunters about its impressive terminal performance on small game.
I was eager to test this ammo. My interest stemmed from a growing need for a reliable and accurate round for prairie dog hunting. The local population had exploded, causing damage to farmland. I needed something that could reach out and touch them humanely and efficiently.
Unfortunately, I was unable to perform an unboxing, as this was not a direct purchase. Instead, this ammunition was provided from existing stock for testing. However, inspecting the rounds reveals clean, consistent brass casings and visibly sharp polymer tips. This gave me an initial sense of quality and care in manufacturing.
While I considered other options, such as the CCI A17 Varmint Tip and Winchester Varmint HE, I ultimately chose to focus on the Hornady due to its consistent positive reviews regarding accuracy and terminal ballistics. Many hunters swear by the Hornady V-MAX bullet. Its reputation was the deciding factor. My first impression was one of cautious optimism, excited to see if the Hornady Varmint Express lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 Hornady Magnum – 1 out of 2 models to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 HMR at a local shooting range and during several prairie dog hunting trips in Montana. The range provided a controlled environment to initially assess accuracy and consistency, while the prairie dog hunts allowed me to evaluate real-world performance on live targets at varying distances. Weather conditions ranged from calm and sunny to windy and overcast, offering a diverse set of challenges.
The .17 HMR proved exceptionally easy to use. It requires minimal recoil, which allowed for quick follow-up shots. The flat trajectory made longer shots more manageable, minimizing the need for extreme holdover. There were no immediate issues; the ammunition fed and extracted reliably in my Savage A17 rifle.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Hornady Varmint Express has proven to be remarkably reliable. I’ve put hundreds of rounds downrange without a single misfire or feeding issue. There were no noticeable signs of wear and tear on the ammunition itself, and the brass casings have held up well during repeated handling and storage.
Cleaning the rifle after using this ammunition has been straightforward. There’s nothing unusual compared to other rimfire rounds. Comparing this to my previous experiences with other rimfire ammunition, the Hornady consistently outperforms in terms of accuracy and terminal performance. The results are significantly more consistent than cheaper bulk ammunition.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 Hornady Magnum – 1 out of 2 models
Specifications
Caliber: .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR). This caliber offers a flat trajectory and high velocity, making it ideal for varmint hunting at extended ranges.
Bullet Weight: 15.5 grain. The lighter bullet weight contributes to the high velocity and flat trajectory of the round.
Bullet Type: NTX (Non-Toxic eXpanding). The NTX bullet features a polymer tip that enhances expansion upon impact, leading to quick and humane kills.
Case Type: Brass. Brass casings ensure reliable feeding and extraction in a variety of firearms.
Round Count: 2000 rounds. The bulk packaging is convenient for high-volume shooters and hunters who frequently engage in varmint control.
Muzzle Velocity: 2,550 fps. This high velocity contributes to the round’s flat trajectory and impressive downrange energy.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the performance and effectiveness of the ammunition. The high velocity and flat trajectory allow for accurate shots at longer distances, while the expanding bullet ensures quick and humane kills. The brass casing ensures reliable function in the firearm.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 HMR performs exceptionally well. It delivers outstanding accuracy, with consistent groupings at 100-200 yards. Reliability has been flawless; the ammunition has consistently fed, fired, and extracted without any issues.
The round’s primary strength is its terminal performance. The NTX bullet expands rapidly upon impact. This creates significant tissue damage for quick and humane kills on small game. The only minor weakness is the susceptibility to wind drift at longer ranges due to the light bullet weight.
The ammunition meets and exceeds expectations for varmint hunting. Its combination of accuracy, reliability, and terminal performance makes it a top choice for serious hunters.
Design & Ergonomics
The ammunition itself is designed for optimal performance and reliability. The brass casing is clean and consistent. The polymer tip of the NTX bullet is sharp and well-formed. The ammunition feels well-made and inspires confidence. There is no learning curve associated with using this ammunition. It’s straightforward and performs as expected.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 HMR is designed to be durable and reliable under normal storage conditions. The brass casings are resistant to corrosion. The ammunition can last for many years if stored properly. There is no specific maintenance required for the ammunition itself. Proper storage in a cool, dry place is sufficient.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 HMR does not require specific accessories or modifications. It is compatible with any firearm chambered in .17 HMR. However, pairing this ammunition with a high-quality scope or optic can further enhance its accuracy and effectiveness.
Popular accessories for .17 HMR rifles include:
- High-magnification scopes: To maximize accuracy at longer ranges.
- Bi-pods: For stable shooting in the field.
- Aftermarket triggers: To improve trigger pull and accuracy.
Pros and Cons of Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 Hornady Magnum – 1 out of 2 models
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy: The .17 HMR caliber, combined with Hornady’s quality control, provides outstanding accuracy for precise shot placement.
- Flat trajectory: The high velocity results in a flat trajectory, making longer shots easier to manage with minimal holdover.
- Devastating terminal performance: The NTX bullet expands rapidly upon impact, ensuring quick and humane kills on small game.
- Reliable feeding and extraction: The brass casings and consistent manufacturing ensure reliable function in a variety of firearms.
- Cost-effective for high-volume shooters: The bulk packaging provides a cost-effective solution for those who frequently engage in varmint control.
Cons
- Susceptibility to wind drift: The light bullet weight can make it susceptible to wind drift at longer ranges, requiring careful wind calls.
- Limited range compared to centerfire cartridges: While effective, the .17 HMR has a more limited range than centerfire varmint cartridges.
Who Should Buy Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 Hornady Magnum – 1 out of 2 models?
The Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 HMR is perfect for:
- Varmint hunters: Those who specifically target prairie dogs, ground squirrels, and other small pests will find this ammunition exceptionally effective.
- Small game hunters: Hunters seeking to ethically harvest small game at longer ranges.
- Target shooters: Individuals looking for an accurate and reliable rimfire round for target practice and recreational shooting.
Who should skip this product?
- Hunters targeting larger game: This ammunition is not suitable for larger game animals due to its small caliber and limited penetration.
- Individuals seeking a low-cost plinking round: While accurate, the .17 HMR is more expensive than .22 LR. Those seeking a budget-friendly plinking round should consider other options.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- High-quality scope with adjustable parallax: To maximize accuracy at varying distances.
- Bi-pod or shooting rest: To provide a stable platform for precise shot placement.
Conclusion on Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 Hornady Magnum – 1 out of 2 models
The Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 Hornady Magnum ammunition is a top-tier choice for varmint and small game hunters seeking accuracy, reliability, and devastating terminal performance. The price is justified by the consistent quality and effectiveness of the round. I would personally recommend this ammunition to anyone serious about varmint control or small game hunting.
If you’re looking for a reliable and accurate round that delivers exceptional results in the field, the Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 HMR is an investment worth making. Pick up a box (or a case) and experience the difference for yourself!