Comments on: For basic varmint hunting, which do you recommend, a .22 magnum, or a .17HMR, and why?

By: JD

JD — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 11:59:12 +0000

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

By: Straight Shooter

Straight Shooter — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 11:59:12 +0000

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.

By: marist34

marist34 — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 11:59:12 +0000

.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.

By: dca2003311@yahoo.com

dca2003311@yahoo.com — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 11:59:12 +0000

Neither one, reconsider the better caliber is the 22-250.*

By: PeeTee

PeeTee — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 11:59:12 +0000

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.