Handloader...If you weren't there to see the shot, I would seriously question that the 17HMR put a softball size hole in anything.

The bullet is 1/2 the size of an asprin, so incredible expansion is impossible. I've shot groundhogs with V-Max's and hollow points, and have been really happy with the results. However, the damage, even at 150 yards was minimal. Up close shots, inside 50yds, I'm seeing no damage whatsoever. Just a pin hole in, and sometimes no exit hole at all.

Maybe if a bullet caught a rib and pushed it through...but I'd still question whether the 17HMR has enough KE to do that.

Not questioning you if you saw it.