Introduction:
The 17 Winchester Super Magnum, or 17 WSM, is a rimfire cartridge developed by the ammunition manufacturer Winchester in 2012. The cartridge is based on the .27 HMR case necked down to .17 caliber. The 17 WSM was designed to achieve velocities of 3000 feet per second with a 20 grain bullet.
The 17 WSM has a maximum pressure of 52,000 psi, which is much higher than other rimfire cartridges such as the .22 Long Rifle and .22 WMR. As a result, the 17 WSM produces significantly higher velocities and energy levels than other rimfire cartridges.
The high pressures generated by the 17 wsm ammo also require that firearms be designed specifically for this cartridge. Current offerings include bolt-action rifles from Ruger and Winchester, as well as a semi-automatic rifle from Savage Arms.
17 WSM ammunition is currently produced by Winchester, Hornady, and Federal. Winchester offers three different loads: a 20 grain varmint load, a 25 grain “Ballistic Silvertip” load, and a 25 grain “Varmint X” load. Hornady offers two loads: a 20 grain “V-Max” load and a 25 grain “NTX” load. Federal offers one load: a 20 grain “Copper-22” load.
Prices for 17 WSM ammunition vary depending on the manufacturer and the specific load, but typically range from $0.50 to $0.70 per round.
Conclusion:
The 17 Winchester Super Magnum is a high-velocity rimfire cartridge that was introduced in 2012. The 17 WSM requires special firearms due to the high pressures generated by the cartridge. Currently, three manufacturers offer 17 WSM ammunition: Winchester, Hornady, and Federal. Prices for 17 wsm ammo vary depending on the manufacturer and specific load but typically range from $0.50 to $0.70 per round.