Well, if you're going to get a new gun for just rabbit and squirrel (I think the 16 will be fine though) I would get a semi auto .22lr. You can buy one used for really cheap. If you're hunting rabbits, the semi auto is great, since you're shooting down, but if you're squirrel hunting, you'd better be a good shot and have self discipline and common sense to not shoot wildly into the air.