Are there benefits to using lighter bullets in .17 Remington?

Ballistic Efficiency

Using lighter bullets in the .17 Remington can result in improved ballistic efficiency, particularly at longer ranges. For instance, a 20-grain bullet at 4,000 fps has less wind drift and drops less than a heavier 25-grain bullet at the same velocity. This translates to increased accuracy and a flatter trajectory.

Varmint Hunting Strategies

When hunting varmints, such as ground squirrels or prairie dogs, a lighter bullet can be beneficial in reducing the kinetic energy transfer to the animal. This results in less damage to the hide and cape, making it easier to clean and preserve the specimen. Additionally, the reduced recoil of the rifle makes it easier to control, allowing for faster follow-up shots. A good starting point for varmint hunting with the .17 Remington is to use a bullet weight between 17 and 20 grains at a velocity of around 4,000 fps.

Practical Considerations

When choosing bullets for varmint hunting, it’s essential to consider the rifling twist rate of the barrel. The .17 Remington typically has a 1:9" twist rate, which can handle bullets up to 25 grains. However, for optimal performance, it’s recommended to use bullets with a weight range between 17 and 20 grains. This will ensure the best possible accuracy and reliability, even at longer ranges.