The .17 Winchester Super Magnum: Tiny Bullet, Big Performance
The .17 Winchester Super Magnum (WSM), introduced in 2013, isn’t your average rimfire cartridge. Unlike its .17 HMR and .22 LR cousins, this little powerhouse packs a punch, offering blistering velocities and pinpoint accuracy. Is it all hype, or does it offer real advantages for specific uses? Let’s explore.
Speed Demon:
Winchester, in conjunction with Savage, introduced this cartridge at the 2013 SHOT Show. The brass case for this round is roughly 50% thicker than the 17 HMR.
Operating at higher pressures than other rimfires, the .17 WSM launches bullets at remarkable speeds. The standard 20-grain projectile clocks in at around 3,000 feet per second (FPS), exceeding even the .17 HMR’s potential. This translates to:
- Flatter Trajectory: Forget bullet drop at longer distances. The .17 WSM extends your effective range for varmint hunting, making those prairie dogs at 200 yards much easier targets.
- High Energy Transfer: Impact matters, and the .17 WSM delivers. Cleaner kills and less chance of wounding smaller game compared to other rimfires.
- Wind Defying: Its bullet’s high velocity makes it less susceptible to wind drift, further enhancing long-range accuracy.
Accuracy to Match:
But speed isn’t everything. The .17 WSM boasts impressive accuracy too. Its thicker case and higher pressure contribute to a more consistent powder burn, leading to tighter groups. Additionally, the smaller .17 caliber bullet inherently experiences less wind resistance, further boosting precision.
Perfect for:
If you’re targeting specific applications, the .17 WSM can be a game-changer:
- Long-Range Varmint Hunting: Say goodbye to bullet drop and hello to confident shots at extended distances. Ground squirrels, prairie dogs, and other long-range varmints beware.
- Small Predator Control: Coyotes and foxes won’t stand a chance against the .17 WSM’s high energy transfer. Plus, minimal fur damage is a bonus.
- Small-Bore Target Shooting: For competitive shooters, the exceptional accuracy translates to tighter groups and potentially higher scores.
However, Before You Buy:
It’s not all sunshine and rainbows. The .17 WSM has its downsides:
- Limited Availability: Finding rifles and ammunition might be tricky compared to more common rimfires.
- Pricey: Be prepared to shell out more for both rifles and ammo compared to standard rimfire options.
- Recoil: While minimal, some shooters find the increased recoil noticeable, especially compared to smaller rimfires.
The Verdict:
The .17 Winchester Super Magnum isn’t your everyday plinking cartridge. It’s a niche performer for specific needs. If you’re a long-range varmint hunter, predator control specialist, or target shooter seeking superior ballistics and accuracy, the .17 WSM might be your new best friend. But remember, explore its limitations before diving in, and always prioritize responsible and legal firearm use.
