I have had both and have shot both pretty extensively. I don't really care about ruffling anyones feathers so here's my opinion and you do what you will. The 17 hmr is a good round. I've killed plenty of coons and ground hogs with it out past the ranges you've talked about. However, I was at a bench and had a high powered scope in supreme at staged feeders or designated stations overlooking a hunting site. I feel that the round in inadequate for coyotes. I've tried to use it for coyotes and have had minimal success. Every occasion I've used or seen a .17hmr used on coyotes it have many times taking more thanone shot for a kill. I've had moresuccess with my 22 mag than I have with a 17. Thats why I'vehad my 22 mag for 14 yrs and its still sitting safely in my safe with dozens of kills. My 17hmr on the other hand issitting on my kitchen tableready to be traded tomorrow after less than two years of being part of my arsenal. Most of which it was sitting and not being used. Long story short, go with the 22 mag