Illinois (and PA I believe) predator hunters are who the .17WSM is really meant for. As long as the new savage action feeds them to the fantastic savage barrels well, the .17WSM is the best option these hunters have.

In fairness, however, if I lived in Illinois, I'd take a long hard look at a savage 212 or 220 slug gun. 200yrd accuracy, and controllable expansion, I'd be tempted to take that over any rimfire. Not sure, honestly, which one i would buy right now if I were in that position, but luckily for me, I'm not.