17HMR bullet retention and penetration testing

[Johnny C. Kitchens]

This is still worth a look for examining the .17 HMR bullet performance...

http://www.varmintal.com/17hmr.htm

My favorite is the metal cans with wet toilet paper rolls inside. It demonstrates the performance difference between the 17gr V-MAX and the .17 TNT bullets, very well. You have to go more than half way down the page, to get to the bullet performance part...

[charlesasmith]

It is a 1517 heavy barrel with the beaver tail forearm. I bought it used. Those are good prices if you can still get either of them.

The problem with the gun is loading the magazine. Mine has a sharp lip and loading comfortably is limited to three rounds. Extra magazines are quite expensive. Someone on the site has talked about producing an 8 round version which, I hope, works out.

The trigger is set @ 10 ounces which is much better than the VQ @ 2 lbs. However, being able to use the Ruger rotary mag is much more convenient and easier to load. Also have found the Ruger factory mag to be very reliable and durable.

Chuck

[GLWenzl]

Thanks Chuck! Appreciate the info! My friends already have theirs, all have a dark wood look to them.

[charlesasmith]

Mine is very dark also. Does not let the stock butt area show the figure in the wood.

Chuck

[Chickenthief]

Stained dark "to hide blemishes" maybe?

[Double D]

Originally Posted by AlbertaAl

I debated 17HMR versus the 22Mag when I was buying this Volquartsen.
17HMR got my vote because of the higher percentage flatter trajectory.
Follow-up shots, when neccessary, aren't a problem with an accurate semi automatic.
I wouldn't consider a Vmax bullet - even if it was more accurate.
The difference in penetration during testing was so small that I'd consider the 20grain CCI and Winchester equals.
Look forward to accuracy testing the Winchester ammunition.
oh yeah,,,, I don't miss my 17 HORNET

We assume a lot about that Vmax bullet, but I for one would like to see that phone book test of the Vmax bullet.

I have shot a number of badgers and rock chucks with the HMR, limiting myself to nostril, earhole and eye as targets. The accuracy of the 17HMR in a Martini 1215 limited to 100 yards or less makes these shot very possible. It is not a round for body or center of mass shot on these larger animals.

[AlbertaAl]

I'll get that Vmax test done when I get back from holidays.
I don't have any of these but will pick up a pack for test and plinking
I suppose Hornady brand ammo ?

[Double D]

Are you in the US on holiday? Great Falls? If so, we can maybe set up a meet and I can get you some rounds to test...I have an adequate supply. Didn't shoot any where near my projected annual 4000 rounds this year.

[AlbertaAl]

Originally Posted by Double D

Are you in the US on holiday? Great Falls? If so, we can maybe set up a meet and I can get you some rounds to test...I have an adequate supply. Didn't shoot any where near my projected annual 4000 rounds this year.

I'm located 20 minutes East of of Edmonton, ALBERTA

[Jeremy(WI)]

I did some testing on 17HMR last year with frying pans at 200 yards and they went through even after switching to a cast iron one