Description
The .17 HMR has earned its reputation as one of the flattest-shooting rimfire cartridges available, and Hornady's Varmint Express line capitalizes on that with precision engineering. This load pairs a lightweight 15.5-grain NTX polymer-tipped bullet with carefully selected components that deliver consistent performance and reliable ignition. The NTX core uses a sintered blend of tungsten, copper, tin and iron instead of traditional lead, making this a non-toxic option without sacrificing terminal performance.
Hornady Varmint Express Ballistics
Launched at 2,525 feet per second, this ammunition produces a flat trajectory that keeps shots on target beyond what most rimfire rounds can handle. The polymer tip not only improves the ballistic coefficient for better downrange energy retention, it also initiates rapid expansion upon impact. When sighted in at 100 yards, the 17 HMR exhibits minimal rise and minimal drift, which matters when you're trying to place precise shots on small varmints at extended distances.
Premium Components and Case Quality
Hornady's case uniformity in their 17 HMR brass is matched only by ultra-expensive match ammunition. The careful attention to case geometry and consistency with propellant selection means you're getting factory loads that perform like hand-loaded rounds. Each round is assembled to deliver uniform velocity and pressure across the entire box, which translates directly to tighter groups and more predictable performance in the field.
Made for Varmint Hunters
From prairie dogs and foxes to raccoons and ground squirrels, this round was built for hunters who want to reach out beyond what a .22 LR can do. The combination of speed, trajectory, and the NTX bullet's expansion characteristics gives you the terminal performance needed for clean, efficient kills on small to medium varmints within the 17 HMR's effective range.
Key Specifications
- Caliber: .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR)
- Bullet Weight: 15.5 grains
- Bullet Type: NTX polymer tip (non-toxic)
- Muzzle Velocity: 2,525 feet per second
- Muzzle Energy: 219-236 foot pounds
- Case Type: Brass
- Rounds per Box: 50
- Manufacturer: Hornady Manufacturing
- Model/Line: Varmint Express
- Manufacturer Part Number: 83171
- UPC Code: 090255831719
What’s Included
- 50 rounds of Hornady Varmint Express 17 HMR ammunition
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the advantage of the NTX bullet over the standard V-MAX in this load?
The NTX uses a non-toxic core made from sintered tungsten, copper, tin and iron rather than lead, making it suitable for areas with lead-free ammunition restrictions. You still get dramatic expansion and reliable performance, but without the environmental concerns. The slightly lighter 15.5-grain weight means less recoil while maintaining effective range.
How far can I reliably shoot the Hornady Varmint Express 15.5gr?
The 17 HMR's flat trajectory makes it effective out to around 200 yards for varmint hunting, especially on calm days. Beyond that, wind becomes a factor with lighter bullets. The key advantage of this round over a .22 LR is that it stays supersonic well past 250 yards, which helps maintain accuracy at extended distances where you need it most.
Does this ammunition work in all .17 HMR rifles?
Yes, this is standard .17 HMR ammunition and will function in any rifle chambered for that caliber. Whether you run a bolt action, lever action, or semi-automatic 17 HMR rifle, this round will cycle and perform reliably. The brass casing and consistent loading ensure reliable ignition across different firearm platforms.
Can I reload Hornady's 17 HMR cases?
The brass cases are reloadable, which is great for long-term shooting if you have the equipment and interest. However, rimfire ammunition cannot be reloaded in the traditional sense since the primer is built into the rim itself. The cases can be used for other projects or saved for potential future use, but you'll need factory ammunition for your next shooting session.






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