Question 1

Is .17 HMR good for squirrel hunting?

Accepted Answer

.17 HMR with V-MAX bullets can be destructive on squirrels at close range due to explosive expansion. For squirrel hunting where you want to preserve meat, use 20gr XTP or gamepoint loads that expand less violently. Head shots minimize meat damage with any bullet type.

Question 2

Can .17 HMR take rabbits?

Accepted Answer

Yes. .17 HMR is effective on rabbits to 150+ yards. The 17gr V-MAX provides clean kills. For meat hunting, the expanding tip can damage more meat than .22 LR at close range, so shot placement matters. At longer ranges where .22 LR lacks energy, .17 HMR is clearly superior.

Question 3

What is the effective range of .17 HMR on small game?

Accepted Answer

.17 HMR is effective on small game to approximately 150–200 yards depending on conditions. Beyond 150 yards, wind becomes a significant factor with the lightweight 17gr bullet. Within 100 yards, it offers devastating performance with pinpoint accuracy from quality rifles.

Product Line	Grain	Type	Typical CPR
Hornady XTP	20gr	Hollow Point	$0.25—0.35
CCI GamePoint	20gr	JSP	$0.22—0.30

.17 HMR small game ammo prices

Best .17 HMR small game loads by product line

What to know about .17 HMR small game ammo

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