Trying to decide between a 22 and 17

WildLifeSniper85 · 12-14-2010, 11:38 AM

I definately want a bolt action whether its a 22 or 17. I am going to be using it mainly for small game but also coyote. I was just wondering what you would recommend and if you can tell the pros and cons of each. Also if you have either a 22 or 17 please tell which brand and model you have.

Thanks,
Corey

Nomercy448 · 12-14-2010, 02:07 PM

I have had a few of each. I have two .17HMR's, a Marlin 917VT and a Savage 93R17 BTVS, and I have a Ruger 10/22 Mag .22Win mag, as well as several .22lrs (2 Marlin Model 60's, a Savage 12BSEV, several Ruger 10/22's).

I also have several Ruger Mark II and Mark III .22lr pistols, and a Taurus Tracker 17 HMR.

Most of my coyote hunting is done with a .223rem.

Your post DID NOT say whether you were considering a .22win mag or .22lr, OR whether it's a .17Mach 2 or a .17 HMR...

If you're comparing a .17HMR to a .22lr, then I'd personally get the .17HMR. Every "boy" should own a .22lr, but if you're considering coyotes, you'll need a little more power than a .22lr. A .22 Win mag is a viable option for coyotes as well.

Between the .22lr and a .17 Mach 2, I'd get a .22lr. A .17Mach 2 doesn't really have any substantial range difference compared to the .22lr. The price difference for ammo is pretty big. The .22lr is the cheapest ammo in the world. The .17 Mach 2 is a lot more expensive (STILL A LOT CHEAPER THAN CENTERFIRE ROUNDS).

I'd be a toss up between the .17HMR and the .22 Win mag. Effective range for coyotes is about the same, but I'm torn between my own thoughts whether I prefer the flatter trajectory of the .17 HMR or the heavier bullet of the .22 WM.

So if I were looking for a coyote rifle, considering a .17 HMR, a .17 Mach 2, a .22lr, and a .22 Win mag, I'd probably rank them in this order from best option to worst:

.17HMR, .22 Win mag, .22lr, and .17 Mach 2.

Of the rifles I have, I LOVE my Savage 93R17 BTVS. The Marlin is also VERY accurate, but the savage accutrigger is amazing, and I prefer the target style stock and stainless barrel.

Ridge Runner · 12-14-2010, 03:06 PM

gotall the rimfires, the only one close to acceptable for coyotes is the 22 WMR and then only when loaded with 50 gr bullets and shots are close.RR

WildLifeSniper85 · 12-14-2010, 03:12 PM

Are the savage .22 rifles any good? I saw a few savage bolt actions today for a good price. I'm not sure what models they were but overall is savage any good?

Sheridan · 12-14-2010, 07:52 PM

Money an issue = .22LR

Money no issue = .17HMR

I now have both, but brought the .17HMR first.....................

Both: close range coyote guns though !

I would go with; .204, .22-250 or .223 if I was looking to shoot yotes !

Nomercy448 · 12-14-2010, 08:22 PM

I can't speak for ALL Savage rifles, but I haven't had one let me down yet. My fiancee has a Savage 12 BSEV .22lr that puts up 10shot groups that fit under a dime at 50yrds, and under a quarter at 100yrds. AMAZING TRIGGER!! I can't say enough good things about the Savage Accutrigger. Plus, the stock (boyds unlabeled) and the fluting on the barrel make the BSEV an amazing looking machine, and it shoots every bit as good as it looks.

Bernie P. · 12-15-2010, 07:15 AM

Neither is a good choice if you're asking about RF's when coyotes are in the picture.

Rebel Hog · 12-15-2010, 09:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sheridan

Money an issue = .22LR

Money no issue = .17HMR

I now have both, but brought the .17HMR first.....................

Both: close range coyote guns though !

Same here!.......

WildLifeSniper85 · 12-16-2010, 10:34 AM

I ended up buying a Marlin 17v .17 HMR with a BSA Sweet 17 scope. I shot it a couple of times but the wind has been blowing too hard to sight in in right.

Sheridan · 12-16-2010, 11:13 AM

Congratulations !

I love my Marlin .17HMR Unbelievably accurate !

http://www.ableammo.com/catalog/prod...ducts_id=96824