It all depends what you're target is. I know this might sound a bit odd, but have you talked to any .17 Remington owners? I'm not talking about that ridiculous 17HMR stuff, I'm talking about real .17 Remington. Dead accurate 300+ yard shots are commonplace with that round, perfect for varminting anything from mice to 'yotes. Virtually no recoil, accurate past 300+ yards, and high velocity. It doesn't explode prairie dogs like a 22-250, but it doesn't destroy coyote pelts, either. It kills very cleanly.

Now, before any of you come out of the woodwork to try to spread more myth and misinformation about this round, please see the following article about 17 Rem that sets the record straight. It is written by a .17 REM owner. I have to confess, it is one of the best articles I've ever read in terms of trying to learn about any particular round (the mythology index in the sport of firearms is astounding).

http://www.coyotegods.com/pagepart15.html

I for one plan on buying a good .17 Rem. for Prairie Dogging that won't embarrass me like a 17HMR or break the bank like a 22-250 or a swift. It will be my "middle" rifle between my 223 (200+ yards) and my 22-250 (400+). Again, this is a rifle that has great accuracy, long range, and little recoil, allowing you to see the target take the hit through the scope.