.17 Ackley Bee (Lee Precision Data)

17 Ackley Bee: Small Bore Precision with Magnum-Like Punch

The 17 Ackley Bee is a standout among the many wildcat cartridges developed during the peak of mid-20th-century reloading experimentation. Created by famed gunsmith P.O. Ackley, this tiny powerhouse is built by necking down the 218 Bee case to accept .172-inch diameter bullets, and has earned a loyal following for its blistering speeds, minimal recoil, and superb varminting capabilities.

Unlike factory offerings that prioritize mass production, wildcats like the 17 Ackley Bee are the result of precision craftsmanship and relentless ballistic curiosity. Though relatively obscure, the cartridge has stood the test of time thanks to its flat trajectory and surprising power in such a small package.

The loading data referenced here is derived from Richard Lee’s Modern Reloading (2nd Edition) and showcases the cartridge's performance potential using standard 25-grain jacketed bullets and a variety of Hodgdon powders. Across all loads, the use of small rifle primers is consistent, and minimum overall length (OAL) is listed at 1.650 inches to ensure proper pressure control—especially with compressed maximum loads.

Of the powders tested, Hodgdon H-4198 stands out for its velocity efficiency, pushing the 25-grain bullet to 3,365 feet per second at the top end with a compressed charge of 13.5 grains—reaching pressures of 45,300 CUP. Even the starting load of 12.5 grains achieves a respectable 2,976 fps, making it one of the more versatile powders for the cartridge.

BL-C(2) and H-335, both ball powders known for smooth metering and stable velocities, also deliver strong performance in the 17 Ackley Bee. Starting loads of 16.0 grains produce muzzle velocities of 3,080 to 3,100 fps, while max charges of 17.0 grains reach just under 3,300 fps, generating chamber pressures in the 39,000 CUP range. Notably, all charges for these two powders are compressed, highlighting the limited internal case volume of the Bee when loaded with bulkier powders.

Another option, H-4227, shows slightly lower velocity potential but may appeal to shooters looking for milder recoil or reduced barrel fouling. With a starting load of 10.0 grains, it clocks in at 2,910 fps, while the maximum charge of 11.0 grains produces 3,131 fps—again hitting the upper safe pressure ceiling of 45,300 CUP.

This data confirms that the 17 Ackley Bee offers impressive ballistic flexibility, depending on the powder and load combination. From nearly 3,400 fps with H-4198 to smoother-burning mid-range loads with H-335, the cartridge delivers flat trajectories and explosive terminal energy—ideal for varmint hunters targeting small game like prairie dogs, marmots, and ground squirrels.

Its downsides are the usual for wildcats: lack of commercial ammunition, the need for custom dies, and careful handloading to avoid overpressure—especially with compressed charges. But for the experienced handloader, the 17 Ackley Bee remains a fascinating and highly effective cartridge with speed and precision that belies its size.