I would compare the 17 HMR to the 22 mag like this:

00-74 yards slight advantage to 17
75-125 yards-definite advantage to 22 mag.
125-200 yards 22 Hornet-this distance is too far for clean kills with 17HMR, and 22 mag.

We have an Anschutz 22 mag. that has accounted for untold numbers of ground hogs. The rifle is over 30 years old. We have shot two different HMR's-and have probably shot 60 or more hogs with it. The 22 mag. IMO is definitely a better choice.

If you have a 22 plinker, I would strongly suggest the 22 Hornet for hunting purposes. The only exception being as stated above, where I am sure DannyD is right. I do not hunt at night. Tom.