I have a tikka t1x chamberd in .17HMR and it shoots 17g Remington accu-tips superbly.
On a calm night I have taken rabbits out up to 254yrds when the conditions have been right
The issues with split cases before firing is something I've not encountered but its common to have them split post firing.
Hornady and Remington are good choices but I have heard nothing but bad things with Winchester