The lack of cycling noise with a semi-auto is a good point. A very wise pig hunting guide in CA warned me that the sound of the bolt cycling after the shot would scare other pigs. Either be very quick or very quiet.

A point not mentioned regarding semi-auto actions as opposed to turn bolts would be reliable extraction. I don' t believe that there are too many hunters going after dangerous game with anything but a turnbolt or a double gun.

That being said, I would think an accurate AR type weapon would be a hoot to shoot prairie dogs with in the right situation. I' m sure glad I live in a place where I have the freedom to make that happen.