Just my opinion, but I wouldn't consider the Browning....it really isn't in the same league when it comes to calibers. The .17 HMR just doesn't have the punch as the .223, and I don't even think its that much cheaper to shoot. The .223 is a centerfire, while the .17 is a rimfire. Go to Remington.com and check out the ballistics of the two, I think that will clarify it for you.

Browning makes some good rifles as well, I don't have any personal experience with them, but thats what I've heard. Check out their rifles, I just wouldn't go for the .17 caliber.