.22 Hornet?
Okay guys, I am definitely going to buy another rifle strictly for predator hunting. I will probably buy a single shot since I am left handed and can't really find a nice bolt in a lh that I like. Besides, I like how a single can round out a real nice and small package for a carry rifle. I will either get a #1 or go dirt cheap and buy an NEF (and use the saved money for the best glass I can afford<img src=icon_smile_blush.gif border=0 align=middle>). Anywho, I am seriously thinking the hornet over. But would not put the .223 out of thought. I know the .22-250 is too much for what I want.
Set up the scenario for a decision here: sparse to dense wood lots, 5-75yd shots will be the norm with very few occasions for 100-150yds. I know there is a limited supply of hornet factory loads and that there is an immeasurable number of loads for the .223. The hornet has less power so I am thinking less damage, the .223 will definitely be able to make the 100-150 yd shots in stride with plenty of power to spare but what really has me irked is that there is a chance (maybe 1 in 4 hunts) that I may get a fox or a cat. Will the hornet cleanly take the 'yote while still allowing for minimal damage to the smaller predators or is the .223 the pill of choice without tearing things apart?
Like I said, I am definitely getting a gun on the new year, but I am mostly wrestling with just caliber choice. What would you gentleman choose in such an occasion and if you have any other choices or suggestions I am open. Except for the .17's. As of right now, I do not reload so I do not feel I will be able to utilize a .17 to full capacity without that ability.
Thanks for any information given. Sorry for being so lengthy
"Clutz by Nature, Hospitalized by Fate..."
Pyral