.17 Hornet (Hodgdon Data)

.17 Hornet (Hodgdon Data): A Modern Take on a Classic Concept

The .17 Hornet, introduced by Hornady in the early 2010s, brought a factory-backed twist to a classic wildcat idea. Based on the old .22 Hornet case — but sharply necked down and given a modern powder charge — the .17 Hornet delivers blistering speeds, low recoil, and exceptional accuracy for its size. Though inspired by P.O. Ackley’s original .17 Hornet wildcat, this SAAMI-standardized version is optimized for today’s rifles and propellants.

Hodgdon’s load data has played a key role in shaping the .17 Hornet’s reputation as a consistent, high-performance varmint round. With powders like H4198 and Lil’Gun, reloaders can safely achieve velocities in the 3,600–3,800 fps range with 20-grain bullets — all while keeping pressures in check and barrel fouling to a minimum. Hodgdon’s testing has ensured that handloaders can tune this cartridge for everything from tiny ground squirrels to midsize predators, depending on bullet selection.

The appeal of the .17 Hornet lies in its balance. It offers centerfire consistency, reloadability, and reach — all while maintaining a flat trajectory and extremely mild report. For rural pest control, quiet range days, or long-distance small game hunting, it’s hard to find a more satisfying performer in this caliber class.

Thanks to Hodgdon’s contributions, the .17 Hornet has remained a handloader’s delight — forgiving, efficient, and always eager to surprise with how much performance can come from so little brass.

Source: Wolfe Publishing