RE: .17hmr vs. 10/22
I have a 17 HMR and really enjoy it. I have a Savage Stainless BVSS and I'm using to teach my kids how to shoot, plus use it for prarie dog hunting. They are tack drivers and fun to shoot. A bunch of buddies from work have them and every 17th of the month, we have "17 Day". Fun to have some little competitions with buddies with targets @ 200/250 yards!
I own a couple of 22's as well, but think the 17 is a funner plinking gun.
Downside is bullets. $9 for 50 is horrible!