For basic varmint hunting, which do you recommend, a .22 magnum, or a .17HMR, and why?
it would be mostly for beaver, nutria, and coyotes
I hunt in a swamp, so most of my shots will be within 100yds.
I’m seriously thinking about getting one tomorrow. I’m looking at a savage bolt with the accutrigger. By the way, which ammo is cheaper?
Tagged with: ammo • beaver • bolt • coyotes • nutria • swamp
Filed under: Varmint Hunting
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As long as there is no major crosswind, give me the 17HMR every time. Extended range,Flat Shooting, Devestating damage for a little bullet..There will be those that will argue this but to date I’ve nailed 23 Coyotes and counting with a 17HMR caliber rifle. 22 WMR might have a heavier bullet, but it just can’t hold a candle to the longer range or impact of the 17HMR. As I said at the beginning, the only concern you have with the 17HMR is a crosswind due to it’s affect on the 17 caliber bullet.Other than that it can’t be beat….
NOTE* The 17HMR makes Prarie Dogs "explode" like they were hit with a 22-250.lol
I prefer the 17. It shoots flatter, and faster, with a ballistic tip option. I get awesome grouping out a fairly economical savage firearm. That of course is just my humble opinion. I think the 22 mag would serve you well, I just prefer the 17.
.17 HMR it may be a little smaller but it is devastating. It is very fast 2550 fps and it pretty much explodes on impact. I’ve shot a squirrel in the head and it cut it in half. It’s very common to see limbs being blown off and stuff like that. If you don’t like to clean up decapitated squirrels don’t get the 17 but if the thought of exploding varmints pleases you get it.
Neither one, reconsider the better caliber is the 22-250.*
For targets of the size you mention I’d go with the 22,better penetration,due to heavier bullet. But consider a center fire, they offer much more versatility and if you can handload vastly increased accuracy.
I know the .17 HMR does good work on armadillos.
a 17. because i have seen the damage they do and i just like them more.
If you’re gonna shoot coyote use a .22 Magnum. A .17 is just too small a bore.
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i wouldn’t hunt any thing larger than a ground hog with a 17 or a 22 mag but if that’s all you got make sure you make good shots a wounded coyote is worst than a healthy one cause it creates a stock killer
If you are hunting for pure pleasure either one will do.
If you are hunting for the pelts, definitely the 22 mag. Gets the job done and doesn’t damage the pelt. The .17 will blow up on impact and tear everything to hell! If you want to hunt squirrels for food then the .22 mag then you won’t have to climbthe trees for the legs!