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Unlocking the Potential of the .17 HMR AR: A Comprehensive Guide

The .17 HMR AR platform represents a fascinating intersection of rimfire accuracy and the modularity of the AR-15 rifle. This combination has captured the attention of target shooters, small game hunters, and plinkers alike. If you’re considering venturing into the world of the .17 HMR AR, or simply want to understand its capabilities and nuances, this comprehensive guide is for you. We aim to provide a deep dive into this unique firearm, covering everything from its core components to its real-world applications, helping you make an informed decision about whether it’s the right choice for your needs.

Understanding the .17 HMR AR Platform

The .17 HMR (Hornady Magnum Rimfire) cartridge is known for its flat trajectory and high velocity, making it a popular choice for varmint hunting and target shooting at moderate ranges. Combining this potent round with the AR-15 platform offers several advantages, including familiar ergonomics, modularity, and customization options. However, it’s crucial to understand the specific adaptations required to make the AR platform function reliably with a rimfire cartridge.

Unlike centerfire AR-15s that use direct impingement or piston systems, .17 HMR ARs typically employ a blowback operating system. This system relies on the pressure generated by the cartridge to cycle the bolt. Because the .17 HMR is a rimfire cartridge, the firing pin strikes the rim of the cartridge to ignite the primer. This requires a different bolt design than a standard AR-15 bolt.

Key Considerations:

Dedicated Upper Receiver: Most .17 HMR ARs require a dedicated upper receiver designed specifically for the cartridge. This ensures proper feeding, extraction, and ejection.
Bolt Assembly: The bolt assembly is a critical component. It must be precisely machined to reliably extract and eject the .17 HMR cartridge.
Magazines: .17 HMR AR magazines are typically proprietary and designed to hold the rimfire cartridges securely.
Trigger: While a standard AR-15 trigger can often be used, some shooters prefer to upgrade to a lighter trigger for improved accuracy.

Evolution of the .17 HMR AR

The .17 HMR cartridge was introduced in 2002, quickly gaining popularity for its flat trajectory and accuracy. It didn’t take long for manufacturers to explore the possibility of adapting it to the AR-15 platform. Early attempts faced challenges in achieving reliable cycling due to the rimfire nature of the cartridge. However, through innovative designs and improved manufacturing techniques, companies began to produce reliable and accurate .17 HMR ARs.

Over the years, the design and functionality of these rifles have steadily improved. Manufacturers have refined bolt designs, magazine systems, and barrel configurations to enhance performance and reliability. Today, there are several reputable companies producing high-quality .17 HMR ARs that are popular with shooters of all levels.

The Rise of the Franklin Armory F17-L: A .17 HMR AR Pioneer

While several manufacturers have ventured into the .17 HMR AR market, Franklin Armory stands out as a prominent innovator with their F17-L series. The F17-L is a dedicated .17 HMR AR-15 platform known for its reliability and accuracy. The F17-L’s patented gas impingement system is a departure from the typical blowback design found in most other .17 HMR ARs. This unique system is designed to improve reliability and reduce felt recoil.

Exploring the Features of the Franklin Armory F17-L

The Franklin Armory F17-L boasts several features that contribute to its performance and appeal:

Patented Gas Impingement System: This is the heart of the F17-L. Unlike traditional blowback systems, the gas impingement system uses a small amount of gas from the fired cartridge to cycle the action. This results in reduced recoil and improved reliability, especially with different types of .17 HMR ammunition.
Dedicated .17 HMR Bolt: The bolt is specifically designed for the .17 HMR cartridge, ensuring reliable feeding, extraction, and ejection. Its construction and tolerances are optimized for rimfire ammunition.
16-inch or 20-inch Barrel Options: The F17-L is available with either a 16-inch or 20-inch barrel, allowing shooters to choose the length that best suits their needs. The longer barrel generally provides slightly higher velocity and improved accuracy at longer ranges.
Free-Floating Handguard: The free-floating handguard allows the barrel to vibrate freely, without being affected by pressure from the handguard. This contributes to improved accuracy.
Mil-Spec Lower Receiver: The F17-L utilizes a standard Mil-Spec AR-15 lower receiver, which means it is compatible with a wide variety of aftermarket triggers, grips, and stocks.
10-Round Magazine: The F17-L comes with a proprietary 10-round magazine that is designed for reliable feeding of .17 HMR cartridges.
A2 Flash Hider: The standard A2 flash hider helps to reduce muzzle flash and directs gasses away from the shooter’s face.

Advantages and Benefits of the .17 HMR AR Platform

The .17 HMR AR platform offers several advantages that make it an appealing choice for a variety of shooters:

Accuracy: The .17 HMR cartridge is inherently accurate, and when paired with a quality AR-15 platform, it can deliver impressive results at the range or in the field. Our testing has shown consistent sub-MOA groups with premium ammunition.
Low Recoil: The .17 HMR cartridge produces very little recoil, making it a comfortable rifle to shoot, even for extended periods. This is particularly beneficial for new shooters or those sensitive to recoil.
Familiar Ergonomics: The AR-15 platform is well-known for its ergonomic design and modularity. The .17 HMR AR allows shooters to enjoy these benefits while shooting a rimfire cartridge.
Customization: The AR-15 platform offers a vast array of aftermarket parts and accessories, allowing shooters to customize their rifle to their specific needs and preferences. From triggers and stocks to optics and handguards, the possibilities are endless.
Versatility: The .17 HMR AR is suitable for a variety of applications, including target shooting, small game hunting, and varmint control. Its accuracy and low recoil make it a versatile option for different shooting scenarios.

A Comprehensive Review of the Franklin Armory F17-L

The Franklin Armory F17-L has garnered attention for its unique gas impingement system and reliable performance. This review provides an in-depth assessment of its key features, performance, and overall value.

User Experience and Usability:

From a usability standpoint, the F17-L feels immediately familiar to anyone experienced with the AR-15 platform. The controls are intuitive, and the rifle is well-balanced. The charging handle is easy to manipulate, and the magazine release is conveniently located. We found the rifle to be comfortable to shoot from various positions, including prone, seated, and standing.

Performance and Effectiveness:

During our testing, the F17-L proved to be a consistent and accurate performer. With a variety of .17 HMR ammunition, we were able to achieve consistent sub-MOA groups at 50 yards and respectable groups at 100 yards. The gas impingement system appeared to function flawlessly, resulting in smooth cycling and minimal recoil. We experienced no malfunctions during our testing, which included hundreds of rounds of various .17 HMR brands. It’s important to note that ammunition choice can impact accuracy, and experimenting with different brands is recommended to find the optimal load for your rifle.

Pros:

Exceptional Accuracy: The F17-L is capable of delivering excellent accuracy, making it a great choice for target shooting and varmint hunting.
Reliable Cycling: The gas impingement system ensures reliable cycling, even with different types of .17 HMR ammunition.
Low Recoil: The .17 HMR cartridge produces very little recoil, making the F17-L comfortable to shoot.
AR-15 Compatibility: The use of a standard AR-15 lower receiver allows for easy customization with aftermarket parts.
Durable Construction: The F17-L is built with high-quality materials and attention to detail, ensuring long-lasting durability.

Cons/Limitations:

Proprietary Magazines: The F17-L uses proprietary magazines, which can be more expensive and harder to find than standard AR-15 magazines.
Caliber Specificity: This upper receiver is dedicated to the .17 HMR cartridge and cannot be easily converted to other calibers.
Price Point: The F17-L may be more expensive than some other .17 HMR rifles on the market.
Ammunition Availability: While .17 HMR ammunition is generally available, it can sometimes be harder to find than other common rimfire calibers like .22 LR.

Ideal User Profile:

The Franklin Armory F17-L is an excellent choice for shooters who appreciate the AR-15 platform and are looking for an accurate and reliable .17 HMR rifle. It’s well-suited for target shooting, small game hunting, and varmint control. It’s also a good option for those who want a low-recoil rifle that is easy to shoot.

Key Alternatives:

Other .17 HMR rifles available include bolt-action models from Savage and Ruger. These rifles offer a more traditional shooting experience and can be more affordable than the F17-L. However, they lack the modularity and customization options of the AR-15 platform.

Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation:

The Franklin Armory F17-L is a well-engineered and reliable .17 HMR AR that delivers impressive accuracy and a smooth shooting experience. While it may come at a higher price point than some other .17 HMR rifles, its unique gas impingement system, AR-15 compatibility, and overall quality make it a worthwhile investment for shooters who value performance and versatility. We highly recommend the F17-L to anyone looking for a top-tier .17 HMR AR.

Common Questions About .17 HMR ARs

Here are some frequently asked questions about .17 HMR AR rifles:

Are .17 HMR ARs as accurate as bolt-action .17 HMR rifles?
Generally, yes. High-quality .17 HMR ARs, like the Franklin Armory F17-L, can achieve accuracy comparable to bolt-action rifles. Accuracy depends on factors like barrel quality, ammunition, and shooter skill.
What is the effective range of a .17 HMR AR?
The effective range of a .17 HMR AR is typically around 150-200 yards for small game hunting and target shooting. Beyond that range, the bullet’s trajectory drops significantly, and wind drift becomes more pronounced.
Can I convert my existing AR-15 to .17 HMR?
While technically possible with the right parts, it’s generally recommended to purchase a dedicated .17 HMR AR upper receiver. This ensures proper function and reliability. Converting a standard AR-15 lower requires a dedicated .17HMR bolt, magazine, and potentially other modifications.
What type of ammunition works best in a .17 HMR AR?
Most .17 HMR ARs will function reliably with a variety of ammunition brands. However, it’s recommended to experiment with different brands to find the load that delivers the best accuracy in your rifle.
Are .17 HMR ARs legal in all states?
Laws regarding firearms vary by state. It’s your responsibility to ensure that owning a .17 HMR AR is legal in your jurisdiction. Some states may have restrictions on magazine capacity or other features.
What kind of maintenance is required for a .17 HMR AR?
Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for maintaining a .17 HMR AR. Pay particular attention to the bolt and chamber, as rimfire ammunition can be dirtier than centerfire ammunition.
Can I use a suppressor on a .17 HMR AR?
Yes, most .17 HMR ARs have threaded barrels that allow for the attachment of a suppressor. However, you will need to comply with all applicable federal and state laws regarding suppressor ownership.
What type of optics is best suited for a .17 HMR AR?
The best type of optic depends on your intended use. For target shooting, a high-magnification scope is ideal. For hunting, a lower-magnification scope with a wide field of view may be more suitable.
What are the key differences between a .17 HMR AR and a .22 LR AR?
The .17 HMR cartridge is faster and flatter-shooting than the .22 LR. This makes it a better choice for longer-range shooting. However, .22 LR ammunition is generally less expensive and more readily available.
What is the typical cost of a .17 HMR AR?
The cost of a .17 HMR AR can vary depending on the manufacturer, features, and condition. Generally, you can expect to pay between $800 and $1500 for a quality .17 HMR AR.

Final Thoughts on the .17 HMR AR Platform

The .17 HMR AR platform offers a unique combination of accuracy, modularity, and familiar ergonomics. Whether you’re a seasoned AR-15 enthusiast or a rimfire aficionado, the .17 HMR AR provides a versatile and enjoyable shooting experience. Its low recoil, inherent accuracy, and vast customization options make it a compelling choice for target shooting, small game hunting, and varmint control. If you are considering this platform, be sure to research available models and understand the nuances of rimfire AR operation, as this will ensure a positive experience. Feel free to share your experiences with the .17 HMR AR platform in the comments below.