The 17hmr is a realy accurate round with devasting power on small game, i love it and would choose it over a 22 anyday. The 17 hmr will offer more power at extended ranges,less bullet drop, and it looks cool. For a skilled shooter the 17hmr has enough ump for kills on small game out to 150 yards and nearly no chance of ricochet. Savage makes a nice 17hmr for 183$ (wal-mart price). So if your gonna be making long shots, the 17 hmr is for you. However something to consider is that a box of 17hmr ammo will run u around 10$ localy or if you can mail order for around 7.52 a box. The only advantage a 22 has over the 17 is ammo price.