Best Hunting Calibers for Hare: .22 LR, .17 HMR, .22 WMR, .223 Rem, and .204 Ruger Compared
Choosing the right caliber for hare hunting: Accuracy, range, and stopping power in focus.
When it comes to hunting hare, the challenge is finding a caliber that balances precision, minimal meat damage, and affordability. With so many options on the market, from the classic .22 LR to the speedy .204 Ruger, it can feel like you’re chasing your tail trying to decide. Let’s break down the top contenders so you can hit the field with confidence—and the right ammo.
Caliber Comparisons
| Feature | .22 LR | .17 HMR | .22 WMR | .223 Rem | .204 Ruger |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Effective Range The maximum range at which the caliber is effective for hare hunting. |
50-75 yards | 150-200 yards | 125-150 yards | 250+ yards | 300+ yards |
| Meat Damage How much damage the caliber typically does to the meat of a hare. |
Minimal | Moderate | Moderate | High | High |
| Ammunition Cost The average cost of ammunition per round. |
$0.10-$0.15 | $0.20-$0.30 | $0.25-$0.40 | $0.50-$1.00 | $0.70-$1.20 |
| Recoil The amount of recoil experienced when firing. |
None | Very Low | Low | Moderate | Moderate |
| Accuracy The typical accuracy of the caliber for small targets like hare. |
Good | Excellent | Very Good | Excellent | Excellent |
.22 LR
The .22 LR is a classic small-game caliber known for its affordability, low recoil, and availability. It’s perfect for short-range hare hunting and is widely used by beginners and seasoned hunters alike.
Pros
- Affordable ammo
- Minimal meat damage
- Widely available
Cons
- Limited effective range
- Less effective in windy conditions
Interesting Fact: The .22 LR has been around since 1887 and is still one of the most popular calibers in the world.
Consider this Caliber If…
You’re hunting hare at close range and want a budget-friendly option.
.17 HMR
The .17 HMR is a high-velocity rimfire caliber that excels at longer ranges compared to the .22 LR. It’s great for hare hunting in open fields where precision is key.
Pros
- Excellent accuracy
- Good for longer ranges
- Flat trajectory
Cons
- More expensive ammo
- Moderate meat damage
Interesting Fact: The .17 HMR can reach speeds of up to 2,500 feet per second, making it one of the fastest rimfire calibers.
Consider this Caliber If…
You’re hunting hare at medium ranges and value accuracy over cost.
.22 WMR
The .22 WMR offers more power and range than the .22 LR, making it a versatile choice for hare hunting. It’s a great middle-ground option for hunters who want more stopping power without stepping up to centerfire calibers.
Pros
- Increased range
- Versatile for small game
- Affordable compared to centerfire options
Cons
- Moderate meat damage
- Higher ammo cost than .22 LR
Interesting Fact: The .22 WMR is sometimes called the ‘magnum’ version of the .22 LR, but it’s a completely different cartridge.
Consider this Caliber If…
You want a balance of range, power, and affordability for hare hunting.
.223 Rem
The .223 Rem is a popular centerfire caliber that offers excellent accuracy and range. While it’s overkill for hare in most cases, it’s a viable option for hunters who already own a .223 rifle.
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy
- Long range
- Widely available
Cons
- High meat damage
- Expensive ammo
Interesting Fact: The .223 Rem is the civilian version of the 5.56 NATO, commonly used in military applications.
Consider this Caliber If…
You already own a .223 rifle and want to use it for hare hunting.
.204 Ruger
The .204 Ruger is a high-velocity, flat-shooting caliber designed for varmint hunting. It’s ideal for long-range hare hunting but can cause significant meat damage.
Pros
- Extremely accurate
- Longest effective range
- Flat trajectory
Cons
- High meat damage
- Expensive ammo
Interesting Fact: The .204 Ruger holds the title for the fastest commercially available rifle cartridge, with speeds exceeding 4,000 feet per second.
Consider this Caliber If…
You’re hunting hare at long distances and prioritize accuracy over meat preservation.
Conclusion
Choosing the right caliber for hare hunting depends on your priorities. For close-range and budget-friendly options, the .22 LR is unbeatable. If you need more range and precision, the .17 HMR or .22 WMR are excellent choices. For those who already own centerfire rifles, the .223 Rem and .204 Ruger offer unmatched accuracy and range but come with higher costs and meat damage. Whatever your choice, make sure it aligns with your hunting style and needs.