Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
When state law bans lead projectiles but varmints keep showing up, you need 17 HMR ammo that doesn’t compromise on accuracy or terminal performance. The Hornady NTX (Non-Toxic Expanding) is the lead-free answer to the polymer-tipped V-Max — same aerodynamic profile, same match-grade consistency, proprietary compressed-metal core that expands on contact with soft tissue. Chambered in 17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire, this 15.5-grain load exits the muzzle at 2525 feet per second with 236 foot-pounds of energy, flattening trajectory and reducing wind drift compared to heavier lead-free rimfire options. California hunters, Nevada shooters on BLM land, and anyone working under non-lead mandates can run this box of 50 without sacrificing the precision Hornady built its reputation on.
Load Profile
Hornady manufactures the NTX bullet in Grand Island, Nebraska, using a compression process that bonds the proprietary metal alloy into a homogeneous core — no lead, no fragmentation into dust on impact with hard surfaces, full expansion when it meets hide and bone. The polymer tip initiates expansion and raises ballistic coefficient to 0.125, keeping the 15.5-grain projectile supersonic past 150 yards. Muzzle velocity of 2525 fps drops to approximately 2020 fps at 100 yards and 1590 fps at 200 yards, with corresponding energy decay from 236 ft-lbs to 148 ft-lbs at 100 and 92 ft-lbs at 200. For comparison, this load loses roughly 15% less velocity than traditional 17-grain lead hollowpoints in the same distance, because the lighter bullet starts faster and the polymer tip cuts drag. Hornady brass cases are drawn to tight tolerances and primed with non-corrosive primers — new production, ready to shoot.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) |
| Bullet weight | 15.5 Grains |
| Bullet type | Polymer Tip (Hornady NTX) |
| Muzzle velocity | 2525 Feet Per Second |
| Muzzle energy | 236 Foot Pounds |
| Rounds/box | 50 Round |
| Case | Brass |
| Primer | Non-corrosive |
| Lead Free | Yes |
| Velocity Rating | Supersonic |
| Intended use | Hunting |
| Manufacturer | Hornady (United States of America) |
The NTX delivers match-grade accuracy from bolt-action and semi-auto rimfire platforms — expect sub-MOA groups at 100 yards from a quality rifle with a good trigger and glass. Stack this 17 HMR ammo for ground squirrels, prairie dogs, rockchucks, and coyotes inside 200 yards in California condor zones, Nevada public land, or any jurisdiction that mandates non-lead projectiles for hunting.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 18 years old for rifle and shotgun ammunition, and at least 21 for handgun ammunition. Ammunition cannot be shipped to certain states, counties, and cities — review our ammunition shipping restrictions before ordering. Store ammunition in a cool, dry location away from heat sources and out of reach of unauthorized users.
- Treat every firearm as if it is loaded. Muzzle discipline prevents negligent discharges.
- Know your target and what lies beyond it. Rimfire bullets ricochet off hard surfaces.
- Store this lead-free ammunition in its original box in a climate-controlled space below 120°F. Extreme heat degrades primers.
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