.17 HMR Safety Warning

By Guy J. Sagi

     At least four ammunition companies are warning shooters not to use .17 HMR in a semi-automatic firearm until you have consulted with your firearms manufacturer. Federal’s Aug. 20 warning explains, “.17 HMR ammunition is manufactured in accordance with standards issued by the Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute (SAAMI). Subsequent to the design and introduction of .17 HMR ammunition to the maket, .17 HMR semi-automatic firearms were introduced by various firearm manufacturers. Many of those firearms have proven to be incompatible with .17 HMR ammunition. .17 HMR ammunition is suitable for use in quality firearms in good condition that are not semi-automatic.” CCI’s bulletin on the situation is much the same.

     Remington warns, “Do not use Remington .17 HMR ammunition in semi-automatic firearms…The use of this ammunition in a semi-automatic firearm could result in property damage or serious personal injury.” Shooters who wish to return Remington .17 HMR ammunition should contact the company directly instead of returning it to the dealer—a $10 coupon will be issued to those turning it in. In addition, “In light of the ammunition manufacturer’s notice, it is very important that you stop using your Remington Model 597 .17 HMR semi-automatic rifle.” Owners of the rifle should contact the company immediately about the recall. For more information or to turn in ammo or a firearm, call (800) 243-9700 and select prompt #3.

     On Sept. 15, Hornady issued a press release stating, “We strongly urge you to contact the manufacturer of your firearm to determine if it is safe to use .17 HMR ammunition in your specific type and model of firearm.”