Exploring the Cartridges’ Beginnings
The 5.7x28mm: Origin and Purpose
The 5.7x28mm cartridge’s origins are deeply rooted in the quest for a lightweight and high-performance round for personal defense and military applications. Developed by FN Herstal, this projectile emerged in the early 1990s, intended to overcome the limitations of existing pistol calibers and offer superior penetration and range, specifically in the context of defeating body armor. The project was ambitious, aiming to create a new standard for personal defense weapons. The designers envisioned a round that would deliver a significant advantage over existing handgun ammunition. The result was a cartridge with a slender profile and a high muzzle velocity, setting it apart from its predecessors.
The .17 HMR: Born for Varmint Hunting
Conversely, the .17 HMR (Hornady Magnum Rimfire) traces its lineage to the pursuit of a superior varmint hunting round. Hornady, the leading manufacturer of ammunition, introduced the .17 HMR in the early 2000s, capitalizing on the performance of a similar cartridge, the .17 Mach 2. This smaller cartridge was created by necking down a .22 WMR (Winchester Magnum Rimfire) case to accept a .17 caliber bullet. The primary goal was to provide hunters with a flat-shooting, accurate round ideal for dispatching small game and varmints at extended ranges. This new caliber provided a noticeable improvement in accuracy and velocity compared to other small caliber rounds, giving it an immediate advantage in the varmint hunting arena.
What Firearms Utilize These Cartridges
Platforms for the 5.7x28mm
The 5.7x28mm enjoys a relatively focused presence in the firearms world. You’ll typically find it chambered in several key platforms that reflect its original design purpose. The FN P90 personal defense weapon is a notable example, renowned for its compact bullpup design and high-capacity magazines. The FN Five-seveN pistol is another flagship offering, designed to provide the same level of performance in a handgun format. Ruger has also embraced the 5.7x28mm with the Ruger-57 pistol and carbine, making the cartridge more accessible to a wider audience.
The .17 HMR’s Firearm Landscape
On the other hand, the .17 HMR is primarily found in bolt-action rifles. This is thanks to the cartridge’s design philosophy, placing emphasis on accuracy. Many manufacturers like Savage Arms, CZ-USA, and Volquartsen offer bolt-action rifles chambered in .17 HMR. Beyond the bolt-action rifles, some semi-automatic rifles are also available. These rifles are designed for the cartridge’s specific performance characteristics, making them a popular choice among varmint hunters and target shooters alike.
Understanding Bullet Weights
Bullet Weights in the 5.7x28mm
The 5.7x28mm typically uses bullets weighing between forty and fifty-five grains. These bullets are designed to maintain high velocities and provide a good balance between penetration and expansion. The specific weight chosen often depends on the intended application, with heavier bullets potentially offering better terminal performance on larger targets.
Bullet Weights in the .17 HMR
For the .17 HMR, bullet weights typically range from seventeen to twenty grains. The lighter bullets contribute to the cartridge’s flat trajectory and high velocity, crucial for achieving accuracy at longer ranges. The available bullet types affect the overall performance, allowing shooters to find the right ammunition for their tasks.
Applications in the Real World
5.7x28mm Applications
The 5.7x28mm finds favor in areas such as self-defense, law enforcement, and target shooting. Its ability to deliver high velocity and penetrate certain types of body armor has made it a favored tool for those seeking an advantage in close-quarters combat situations. The relatively low recoil adds to its appeal for rapid follow-up shots.
.17 HMR Applications
The .17 HMR is ideally suited for varmint hunting and small game hunting. Its flat trajectory and accuracy at ranges exceeding one hundred yards make it a capable option for dispatching prairie dogs, groundhogs, and other small targets. It is also a fun choice for target practice, especially when the goal is to maximize the fun of shooting at a reduced cost.
A Look at the Ballistics Data
(Please note that actual data can vary slightly based on specific ammunition types, barrel lengths, and testing methods. The following data is based on commonly available factory loads for each cartridge.)
5.7x28mm vs .17 HMR Ballistics Chart
| Feature | 5.7x28mm (Example: FN 40gr V-MAX) | .17 HMR (Example: Hornady 17gr V-MAX) |
|---|---|---|
| Bullet Weight | 40 grains | 17 grains |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1,950 fps | 2,550 fps |
| Ballistic Coefficient (BC) | 0.139 | 0.125 |
| Velocity @ 50 yards | 1,810 fps | 2,360 fps |
| Velocity @ 100 yards | 1,680 fps | 2,190 fps |
| Velocity @ 150 yards | 1,550 fps | 2,030 fps |
| Velocity @ 200 yards | 1,430 fps | 1,870 fps |
| Energy @ 50 yards | 292 ft-lbs | 210 ft-lbs |
| Energy @ 100 yards | 250 ft-lbs | 181 ft-lbs |
| Energy @ 150 yards | 213 ft-lbs | 156 ft-lbs |
| Energy @ 200 yards | 182 ft-lbs | 132 ft-lbs |
| Drop @ 100 yards (zeroed at 100) | -2.5 inches | 0 inches |
| Drop @ 200 yards (zeroed at 100) | -13.2 inches | -4.1 inches |
Interpreting the Chart: Analyzing the Numbers
The ballistics chart reveals several crucial differences between the two cartridges. The .17 HMR boasts a significant muzzle velocity advantage, with some factory loads exceeding 2,500 feet per second. However, due to the lower ballistic coefficient and the lighter bullet weight, the .17 HMR’s velocity tends to shed more quickly over distance compared to the 5.7x28mm. The 5.7x28mm, while starting slower, is able to retain its velocity better at extended ranges, though it’s still quite significantly slower compared to the .17 HMR at its outset.
In terms of energy, the 5.7x28mm initially delivers more energy at the muzzle, but due to the lower bullet weight, the energy advantage becomes less pronounced at longer distances. The .17 HMR, despite its initially higher velocity, generally delivers less energy at extended ranges.
Trajectory, or the bullet’s path, is an area where the .17 HMR shines. Its flatter trajectory, thanks to the combination of its high velocity and sleek bullet design, results in less bullet drop at longer ranges. The 5.7x28mm, while still relatively flat-shooting, experiences more drop over distance.
The .17 HMR benefits from a high ballistic coefficient when compared to the 5.7x28mm. This leads to its flatter trajectory and less wind drift.
Practical Considerations: Beyond the Numbers
Accuracy and Precision
Accuracy is paramount, and both cartridges can deliver excellent results when paired with the right firearm and ammunition. The .17 HMR is especially known for its exceptional accuracy potential. However, factors like the quality of the firearm, the consistency of the ammunition, and the shooter’s skills play a significant role in both cases.
Range and Effectiveness
The effective range is another essential consideration. The .17 HMR shines at distances out to 150–200 yards, while the 5.7x28mm offers a longer potential effective range because of the design and retained energy. The .17 HMR delivers a flat trajectory out to 200 yards, while the 5.7x28mm is able to extend that range based on the ballistic coefficient of the ammunition in use.
Recoil and Ease of Use
Recoil is another area where these cartridges differ. The 5.7x28mm’s low recoil makes it a popular choice for beginners and allows for quicker follow-up shots. The .17 HMR offers a similar experience in terms of low recoil.
Cost of Ammunition
The cost of ammunition is a key factor for many shooters. The .17 HMR generally offers a lower cost per round than the 5.7x28mm, making it an economical option for regular target practice and small-game hunting. The prices are comparable, depending on where you live and the availability of ammunition.
Firearms Availability
Firearms availability is another key consideration. While the .17 HMR is found in many different types of rifles, the 5.7x28mm has fewer firearms available, making it a more specific choice.
Deciding on the Best Cartridge Based on the Application
The 5.7x28mm in Self-Defense
For self-defense, the 5.7x28mm can be the better option. The cartridge is designed to be fired from relatively compact firearms. This makes it easier to carry and provides a high level of performance in the face of danger.
.17 HMR for Varmint Hunting
For varmint hunting, the .17 HMR is almost always the best choice. It is designed for dispatching small game and varmints at ranges typically seen in the field. The accuracy and flat trajectory combined with lower cost make it an ideal candidate for this activity.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
The 5.7x28mm: Pros and Cons
The **5.7x28mm advantages** include its high velocity, penetration, and low recoil. Its downsides are the ammunition cost and limited availability of firearms.
The .17 HMR: Advantages and Disadvantages
The **.17 HMR advantages** are its accuracy, flat trajectory, and affordable ammunition. Disadvantages include effectiveness on larger game, wind drift, and velocity loss at longer ranges.
Final Thoughts
The choice between the 5.7x28mm and the .17 HMR depends on the shooter’s priorities and intended applications. The 5.7x28mm excels in the defensive role, offering a balance of power and manageable recoil. The .17 HMR shines in situations requiring high accuracy and a flat trajectory, making it a favorite for varmint hunting and target shooting.
Ultimately, the best cartridge is the one that meets your specific needs. Evaluating your intended use, understanding the ballistics, and considering the practical aspects discussed above will help you make an informed decision. The **5.7×28 vs .17 HMR Ballistics Chart** is a useful tool for analyzing the numbers and making a choice.
Remember to always prioritize safety, follow local regulations, and practice responsible gun ownership.
