i could have swore that Prairie dogs are gophers. Anything ranging from .22LR and up is good for em. I use a .17HMR with a 2.5-10X42 and i just bought a .22-250 with a 4-12X40. Should work dandy together, .17HMR for shots under 100yrds, .22-250 for everything over. I usually just drive around in a golf cart or pickup shooting em. The box also makes for a nice place to lie prone.