.17 Rem. Fireball Load Data

Introduced by Remington Arms in 2007, the .17 Remington Fireball is a relatively modern addition to the world of high-velocity varmint cartridges. Based on the classic .221 Remington Fireball case necked down to accept a .17 caliber bullet, this cartridge was designed to push tiny, lightweight projectiles at blistering speeds. Its development stemmed from the popularity of wildcat cartridges like the .17 Mach IV, which hunters and precision shooters had been handloading for decades. By standardizing these dimensions, Remington brought enhanced performance, availability, and consistency to shooters who wanted ultra-high velocity without the excessive powder loads and barrel wear seen in some other .17 caliber rounds. The .17 Rem Fireball quickly found favor among reloaders for its accuracy, efficiency, and reduced recoil, while also extending barrel life compared to its larger sibling, the .17 Remington.

The primary application of the .17 Remington Fireball lies in varmint and small predator hunting. Its flat trajectory and explosive terminal performance make it ideal for hunting small game such as prairie dogs, ground squirrels, and jackrabbits, as well as slightly larger animals like foxes and coyotes. The high velocity ensures rapid expansion and minimal pelt damage, a feature valued by hunters who wish to preserve fur. Furthermore, the low recoil allows for quick follow-up shots and less disturbance of shooting position, which is crucial during high-volume varmint shoots. The .17 Rem Fireball also appeals to target shooters and benchrest enthusiasts who appreciate its accuracy and minimal wind drift at moderate distances.

When it comes to target species, the .17 Remington Fireball garners praise in both professional and recreational varmint circles. Its efficient ballistic profile provides excellent results against smaller targets, allowing shooters to dispatch pests at extended ranges with impressive precision. The cartridge is especially effective on small and mid-sized varmints out to 300 yards and beyond. For reloaders focused on fur harvesting, the round delivers enough punch to ensure quick, humane kills while limiting the risk of excessive exit wounds—a significant concern with larger, faster calibers. Its relatively mild report is also appreciated by those hunting in areas with noise sensitivities or strict regulations.

Reloaders exploring the .17 Remington Fireball find a variety of bullet weights appropriate for different hunting and shooting applications. Typical bullet weights range from 20 to 25 grains, with 20-grain projectiles being the most common due to their optimal balance of velocity, flat trajectory, and terminal effect. These bullets are usually of spitzer or polymer-tipped design to maximize ballistic performance at high speeds, often exceeding 4,000 feet per second at the muzzle. The cartridge’s light powder charge results in reduced barrel fouling and longer barrel life compared to some of the larger, harder-hitting .17 calibers. It features a small rifle primer and a rimless bottleneck case, which makes reloading straightforward with standard dies. The .17 Rem Fireball is highly regarded for its ability to deliver remarkable accuracy, manageable recoil, and efficiency, making it a standout option for meticulous reloaders who demand consistency and performance from their load development.