As a long-time hunter and avid reloader, I’ve spent years exploring the nuances of various cartridges. Lately, I’ve been getting a lot of questions about the .17 Remington Fireball brass and its place in the world of small-game cartridges. It’s a fascinating round with a dedicated following, and for good reason. This article will cover everything from .17 Fireball ballistics to comparing it with other popular rimfire and centerfire options like the .17 Hornet vs .17 Fireball, and even touch on its presence in the gaming world with references to Fallout: New Vegas. We’ll also discuss where to find .17 Fireball ammo and rifles chambered for it.
The .17 Remington Fireball, often shortened to .17 FB, is a centerfire cartridge introduced by Remington in 2008. It’s based on the .223 Remington case necked down to accept a .172 diameter bullet – the same bullet used in the popular .17 Hornet and .17 Mach IV (.17 HM4). However, the Fireball utilizes a different case and generally produces lower velocities than the Hornet. It was designed to offer a flat-shooting, accurate cartridge for varmint hunting at ranges out to 200 yards, filling a niche between .17 HM2 and the .17 Hornet. It’s important to note how do you spell Remington correctly – it’s a common question!
Remington developed the .17 Fireball in response to the growing popularity of the .17 Hornet. While the Hornet offered excellent performance, it could be expensive to shoot, and some rifles didn’t achieve consistent accuracy. The Fireball aimed to provide a more affordable and reliable option, though it sacrifices some velocity. The cartridge quickly gained traction among varmint hunters and reloaders looking for a versatile and accurate small-game round.
This is the question I get asked most frequently. The .17 Hornet vs .17 Fireball debate is a common one. Both cartridges share the same .172” bullet diameter, making them similarly accurate. However, there are key differences. The Hornet uses a longer case and more powder, resulting in higher velocities – typically around 3,000 fps with a 20-grain bullet, compared to the Fireball’s 2,800-2,900 fps. This translates to a flatter trajectory and more energy at longer ranges for the Hornet. However, the Hornet also generates more recoil and can be harder on barrels. The Fireball, being lower powered, is generally easier to shoot accurately and offers better barrel life. It’s also often more affordable to reload for.
| Feature | .17 Remington Fireball | .17 Hornet |
|---|---|---|
| Velocity (20gr bullet) | 2800-2900 fps | 3000+ fps |
| Recoil | Low | Moderate |
| Barrel Life | Good | Moderate |
| Cost (Ammo/Brass) | Generally Lower | Generally Higher |
| Effective Range | 150-200 yards | 200-300 yards |
While the .17 Fireball isn’t as widely chambered as some other cartridges, several manufacturers offer rifles in this caliber. Who makes .17 Fireball rifles? Remington initially offered the Model 7 in .17 Fireball, and it remains a popular choice. Savage also produced models chambered for the cartridge. You can often find used rifles in good condition. Keep an eye on online gun auctions and forums. It’s also worth noting that some custom gunsmiths will chamber existing rifles for the .17 Fireball, but this requires careful consideration and expertise.
The Remington Model 7 is a bolt-action rifle known for its accuracy and reliability. It was available in several calibers, including the .17 Fireball. The Model 7’s action is well-suited to the cartridge, providing excellent accuracy potential. Finding a used Model 7 in .17 Fireball can be a great way to get into the cartridge without breaking the bank.
Reloading is where the .17 Fireball truly shines. The cartridge is relatively easy to reload, and the cost savings can be significant. Finding .17 Remington Fireball brass can sometimes be a challenge, but it’s available from several suppliers. A neck sizer die is often sufficient for reloading, as the Fireball case doesn’t expand much upon firing. I recommend using a quality reloading manual and starting with published load data. Experimentation is key to finding the most accurate load for your rifle.
Sourcing .17 Remington Fireball brass can be tricky. It’s not as readily available as more common calibers. Look to online retailers specializing in reloading components, such as MidwayUSA and Brownells. You may also find brass available through online forums and classifieds. Don't be afraid to ask around in the reloading community – fellow reloaders are often willing to share sources.
The .17 Fireball ballistics are impressive for a small-game cartridge. A 20-grain bullet can achieve velocities of around 2,800-2,900 fps, providing a flat trajectory out to 150-200 yards. This makes it ideal for hunting varmints like groundhogs, prairie dogs, and squirrels. It’s also effective on small game like rabbits and hares. The cartridge’s accuracy and minimal recoil make it a pleasure to shoot, even for beginners. I’ve personally had great success using the .17 Fireball on groundhog hunts, consistently achieving accurate shots at distances up to 180 yards.
For those familiar with the video game Fallout: New Vegas, the .17 Fireball might sound familiar. The game features a unique weapon, the “Medicine Stick,” chambered in .17 Fireball. The in-game description highlights its accuracy and effectiveness at long range. The inclusion of the .17 Fireball in the game has helped to raise awareness of this often-overlooked cartridge. The hand loader new vegas character is also a nod to the reloading aspect of the cartridge.
Finding .17 Fireball ammo can be a challenge, as it’s not produced by all major ammunition manufacturers. Remington used to offer factory ammunition, but it can be difficult to find now. Federal Premium and other smaller manufacturers occasionally produce .17 Fireball ammunition. Reloading is often the most reliable way to ensure a consistent supply of ammunition. Check online retailers and local gun stores for availability.
The .17 Mach IV, also known as .17 HM4, is another rimfire cartridge that often gets compared to the .17 Fireball. The HM4 is a rimfire cartridge, while the Fireball is centerfire. This means the Fireball generally offers higher velocities and flatter trajectories. However, the HM4 is significantly cheaper to shoot and easier to find ammunition for. The choice between the two depends on your priorities – accuracy and range with the Fireball, or affordability and convenience with the HM4.
As with any firearm, safety is paramount. Always follow the four rules of firearm safety: 1) Treat every gun as if it is loaded. 2) Never point a gun at something you do not intend to shoot. 3) Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot. 4) Be sure of your target and what is beyond it. Refer to resources from the National Rifle Association (NRA) and your state’s hunting regulations for more information on safe firearm handling. Also, always practice responsible land stewardship and adhere to the principles of Leave No Trace (leavenotrace.org).
I hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with a better understanding of the .17 Remington Fireball. It’s a fantastic cartridge for varmint hunting and reloading, and with a little effort, you can find a rifle and ammunition to enjoy its capabilities. For more information on cartridge selection and hunting techniques, check out REI Expert Advice and resources from the National Park Service (nps.gov) and the USDA Forest Service (fs.usda.gov).