The 17 win super mag was born out of a desire to create a rimfire cartridge with the performance of a centerfire. Winchester achieved this by necking down a .27 caliber nail-gun blank cartridge to accept a .17 caliber bullet. The result was a cartridge capable of launching a 20-grain bullet at a blistering 3,000 feet per second (fps), offering unprecedented flat trajectory and energy retention at extended ranges.
Key Features and Benefits
High Velocity: The .17 WSM pushes the boundaries of rimfire performance, delivering muzzle velocities that rival some centerfire cartridges. This translates to exceptional downrange energy and minimal bullet drop, making it ideal for long-range shooting.
Flat Trajectory: The high velocity of the .17 WSM results in a remarkably flat trajectory, allowing for accurate shot placement at extended distances. This is particularly beneficial for varmint hunters who need to make precise shots on small targets.
Reduced Recoil: Despite its impressive power, the .17 WSM produces relatively low recoil, making it comfortable to shoot for extended periods. This is especially important for younger shooters or those sensitive to recoil.
Excellent Accuracy: The .17 WSM is renowned for its exceptional accuracy. With high-quality ammunition and a well-tuned rifle, it’s possible to achieve sub-MOA groups at 100 yards and beyond.
Affordable Ammunition: Rimfire ammunition is generally more affordable than centerfire ammunition, and the .17 WSM is no exception. This makes it a cost-effective option for practice and hunting.
Applications
The .17 WSM is primarily used for two main applications:
Varmint Hunting: The high velocity and flat trajectory of the .17 WSM make it an excellent choice for hunting small game such as prairie dogs, ground squirrels, and jackrabbits. Its clean kills and minimal meat damage are highly valued by hunters.
Target Shooting: The .17 WSM’s accuracy and consistent performance make it a popular choice for target shooting competitions. It’s particularly well-suited for long-range benchrest shooting, where precision is paramount.
Popular Rifles Chambered in .17 WSM
Several reputable manufacturers offer rifles chambered in .17 WSM, catering to a wide range of budgets and preferences. Some of the most popular options include:
Ruger 77/17: This bolt-action rifle is known for its accuracy and reliability. It features a crisp trigger, adjustable sights, and a detachable magazine.
Winchester Xpert: This semi-automatic rifle offers fast follow-up shots and is well-suited for varmint hunting. It comes with a variety of features, including a precision rimfire MOA trigger and a button-rifled barrel.
Franklin Armory F17: This AR-style rifle provides a modern platform for the .17 WSM. It’s customizable and offers a comfortable shooting experience.
Ammunition Options
Winchester offers a variety of .17 WSM ammunition options, including:
Varmint HV: This load features a 20-grain polymer-tipped bullet designed for high velocity and flat trajectory.
Varmint HE: This load utilizes a 25-grain polymer-tipped bullet for increased energy and heavier impact.
Varmint-X: This load is lead-free and features a 15-grain polymer-tipped bullet for high velocity and reduced recoil.
The Future of the .17 WSM
While the .17 WSM has gained popularity among hunters and target shooters, it’s important to note that it’s not without its limitations. The high-pressure cartridge can be demanding on rifles and ammunition, and it may not be suitable for all shooters. Additionally, the availability of ammunition and rifles chambered in .17 WSM can vary.
However, the .17 WSM continues to be a compelling option for those seeking a high-performance rimfire cartridge. As technology advances and ammunition manufacturers continue to innovate, we may see even more exciting developments in the future of this caliber.
Frequently Asked Questions About the .17 Winchester Super Magnum
What is the .17 WSM?
The .17 Winchester Super Magnum (WSM) is a high-powered rimfire cartridge introduced by Winchester in 2012. It’s designed to deliver exceptional velocity, accuracy, and flat trajectory, making it a popular choice for both varmint hunting and target shooting.
What are the advantages of the .17 WSM over other rimfire cartridges?
High Velocity: The .17 WSM offers significantly higher velocities than other rimfire cartridges, resulting in flatter trajectories and increased energy at longer ranges.
Accuracy: It’s capable of delivering excellent accuracy, making it suitable for precise shooting at extended distances.
Reduced Recoil: Despite its power, the .17 WSM produces relatively low recoil, making it comfortable to shoot for extended periods.
What are the common applications of the .17 WSM?
Varmint Hunting: The .17 WSM is ideal for hunting small game like prairie dogs, ground squirrels, and jackrabbits. Its high velocity and accuracy ensure clean kills.
Target Shooting: The cartridge’s precision and consistent performance make it a popular choice for target shooting competitions, especially benchrest shooting.
What are some popular rifles chambered in .17 WSM?
Several reputable manufacturers offer rifles chambered in .17 WSM:
Ruger 77/17: A bolt-action rifle known for its accuracy and reliability.
Winchester Xpert: A semi-automatic rifle that offers fast follow-up shots and is well-suited for varmint hunting.
Franklin Armory F17: An AR-style rifle that provides a modern platform for the .17 WSM.
What types of ammunition are available for the .17 WSM?
Varmint HV: A high-velocity load with a 20-grain polymer-tipped bullet.
Varmint HE: A heavier load with a 25-grain polymer-tipped bullet.
Varmint-X: A lead-free load with a 15-grain polymer-tipped bullet.
Are there any drawbacks to using the .17 WSM?
Ammunition Availability: While the .17 WSM is gaining popularity, ammunition availability may be limited in some regions.
Rifle Availability: The number of rifles chambered in 17 win super mag is relatively limited compared to more common calibers.
Recoil Sensitivity: Some shooters may find the recoil of the 17 win super mag to be more pronounced than other rimfire cartridges, especially when using high-velocity ammunition.
Conclusion
The .17 Winchester Super Magnum is a remarkable cartridge that has redefined the possibilities of rimfire shooting. Its high velocity, flat trajectory, accuracy, and affordability make it a compelling choice for both varmint hunters and target shooters. If you’re looking for a powerful and precise rimfire cartridge, the 17 win super mag is definitely worth considering.
To read more, click here.
