Let’s Talk About **Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire 15.5 Grain NTX Rimfire Ammunition
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The Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire 15.5 Grain NTX Rimfire Ammunition is designed for one thing: obliterating varmints with lead-free precision. Produced by Hornady, a name synonymous with quality ammunition, this round offers a compelling solution for hunters and shooters in areas with lead restrictions, or those who simply prefer a non-toxic option. With its high velocity and frangible bullet, it promises devastating terminal performance on small game.
I was looking for a reliable and accurate lead-free option for groundhog hunting in a designated wildlife management area where lead ammunition is prohibited. The regulations are strict, and the Hornady NTX rounds seemed like the ideal solution to stay compliant without sacrificing performance. I’d been using standard lead .17 HMR rounds, and needed to find an equivalent in ballistic performance, that was also lead-free.
Unboxing the Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 HMR NTX, I was immediately impressed with the consistent appearance of the cartridges. They were clean, well-seated, and the NTX tips looked precisely formed. The brass cases gleamed, and the overall impression was one of high-quality manufacturing, typical of Hornady.
I considered a few other lead-free options, including some offerings from CCI and Winchester. However, Hornady’s reputation for accuracy and consistent performance, combined with the specific design of the NTX bullet for rapid expansion, swayed my decision. The ballistic data also suggested a flatter trajectory compared to some of the competitors.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to try a lead-free option that promised to deliver similar performance to my trusted lead rounds. I was also a little skeptical about whether a frangible bullet would truly perform as well on larger varmints like groundhogs.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire 15.5 Grain NTX Rimfire Ammunition
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First Use Experience
I tested the Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 HMR NTX at my local shooting range, as well as during several groundhog hunts on a farm I have permission to hunt. Weather conditions varied from sunny and calm to slightly windy with occasional light rain. My rifle is a Savage A17 semi-automatic.
The ammunition fed flawlessly and ejected cleanly in my Savage A17. Accuracy was impressive, with consistent sub-MOA groups at 100 yards. There were no noticeable differences in performance due to weather conditions, with consistent results in both dry and slightly damp environments.
The only surprise was the degree of fragmentation on impact with dirt berms at the range. The frangible NTX bullet truly lived up to its name!
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 HMR NTX has proven to be incredibly reliable. I haven’t experienced a single misfire or feeding issue. The ammunition has maintained its accuracy even after being stored in varying temperatures and humidity levels.
There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the cartridges themselves. However, I did notice that the NTX tips can be slightly more susceptible to deformation if the rounds are handled roughly. Careful handling is advised to maintain optimal ballistic performance.
Cleaning my rifle after shooting the NTX rounds is straightforward. I didn’t notice any significant difference compared to cleaning after using lead ammunition. In my experience, the Hornady NTX outperforms other lead-free rimfire options I’ve tried in terms of accuracy and terminal ballistics.
Breaking Down the Features of **Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire 15.5 Grain NTX Rimfire Ammunition
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Specifications
The Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 HMR NTX boasts some impressive specifications. The .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire caliber offers a flat trajectory and high velocity. The 15.5-grain NTX (Non-Toxic eXpanding) bullet is designed for rapid expansion and fragmentation.
The brass cartridge case ensures reliable feeding and extraction. The muzzle velocity of 2050 ft/s delivers significant energy on target. The application is specifically for small game, where its terminal performance shines.
The rimfire primer style is standard for .17 HMR ammunition. The muzzle energy of 149 ft-lbs is substantial for a rimfire round, ensuring humane and effective kills on varmints. These specifications translate to a high-performance, lead-free round suitable for varmint hunting and target shooting in areas with restrictions.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 HMR NTX excels in its primary function: delivering accurate and devastating terminal performance on small game. Accuracy is consistently sub-MOA at 100 yards in my rifle. The ammunition is highly reliable, with no malfunctions to date.
The NTX bullet expands rapidly upon impact, creating a significant wound cavity and ensuring quick, humane kills. A notable strength is its lead-free construction, making it ideal for environmentally sensitive areas. One potential weakness is its frangibility, which might limit its penetration on larger or tougher varmints at longer ranges. Overall, it meets and often exceeds expectations for a lead-free .17 HMR round.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 HMR NTX features a well-designed cartridge with clean lines and a consistent appearance. The brass case is high-quality and facilitates smooth feeding and extraction. The 15.5-grain NTX bullet has a distinct polymer tip designed to initiate rapid expansion.
The weight of the cartridge is standard for .17 HMR ammunition, and there is no noticeable recoil. There is no significant learning curve associated with using this ammunition. It performs just like any other high-quality .17 HMR round.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 HMR NTX cartridges themselves are quite durable, provided they are handled with care to avoid deforming the NTX tips. The brass cases are resistant to corrosion under normal storage conditions. The ammunition should last for many years if stored properly in a cool, dry place.
Cleaning my rifle after shooting this ammunition is no different than cleaning after shooting standard lead rounds. There are no special maintenance requirements. Proper storage and regular cleaning will ensure continued reliable performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 HMR NTX does not require any specific accessories for use. It is compatible with any rifle chambered for .17 HMR. Some shooters might choose to pair this ammunition with high-quality optics for enhanced accuracy at longer ranges.
There are no specific customization options for the ammunition itself. However, it can be used in conjunction with various aftermarket triggers and other rifle upgrades to improve overall performance. The round is also compatible with suppressors designed for .17 HMR.
Pros and Cons of **Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire 15.5 Grain NTX Rimfire Ammunition
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Pros
- Lead-free, making it suitable for areas with restrictions and environmentally conscious shooters.
- Excellent accuracy, consistently delivering sub-MOA groups at 100 yards.
- Rapid expansion, ensuring humane and effective kills on small game.
- High velocity, providing a flat trajectory and minimizing bullet drop.
- Reliable feeding and extraction in a variety of .17 HMR rifles.
Cons
- Frangible bullet may offer less penetration on larger varmints at longer ranges.
- NTX tips can be slightly more susceptible to deformation if handled roughly.
Who Should Buy **Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire 15.5 Grain NTX Rimfire Ammunition
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The Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 HMR NTX is perfect for varmint hunters and target shooters who require or prefer lead-free ammunition. It is an excellent choice for those who prioritize accuracy and humane kills on small game. This ammunition is also ideal for individuals who hunt in environmentally sensitive areas or on properties where lead ammunition is prohibited.
Those who primarily hunt larger or tougher varmints at longer ranges might want to consider a different round with greater penetration. Shooters who are extremely rough on their ammunition might also find the NTX tips to be a potential issue. A good bore snake for quick clean-up after a shooting session is a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on **Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire 15.5 Grain NTX Rimfire Ammunition
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The Hornady Varmint Express Rimfire .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire 15.5 Grain NTX Rimfire Ammunition is a top-tier lead-free option for .17 HMR rifles. It offers a compelling blend of accuracy, reliability, and terminal performance. The price is justified by its consistent quality and lead-free construction.
I would absolutely recommend this ammunition to anyone looking for a high-performance, environmentally responsible .17 HMR round. If you need to comply with lead restrictions without sacrificing effectiveness, then this ammunition is a must-try. Grab a box today and experience the Hornady difference!